IT was party time in Middleton-in-Teesdale last week as the village’s Women’s Institute group celebrated its centenary.
WI members from across the dale gathered in the village hall to mark 100 years of women meeting in Middleton-in-Teesdale.
Guests were welcomed into the hall which was aptly decorated with bunting and balloons. They enjoyed an evening of food and entertainment which included music by Notes From Teesdale and a belly dancing performance. A special cake was also cut to mark the occasion.
Group president Suzanne McBain has been a WI member for the past 35 years.
She said: “It is a very special occasion. The group is for friendship and you learn new skills and knowledge. Members support each other. It is a very good and interesting group.”
Special guests at the party included chairperson of the Durham County Federation of Women’s Institutes Judith Alderson and county treasurer Lesley Jerred.
Ms Alderson said: “This group was formed almost straight away. We have had six in the county this year celebrate their centenaries. I think it is a tremendous achievement.”
Middleton-in-Teesdale WI was formed in February 1918 and meetings were held at the Temperance Hotel in the village. The group currently has 23 members and meets on the fourth Tuesday of every month in the village hall.