CORONAVIRUS may have curtailed a lot of community activity, but the intrepid ladies of the WI have still been keeping busy and in contact.

Among the local groups, Bulphan WI made a part of their own history in earlier this year, when for the first time since their formation in 1929 they had a virtual monthly meeting.

Members donned their party clothes, had a glass or cup of their favourite tipple to hand and joined together to celebrate the 91st anniversary of the WI.

The meeting in April started as always with the singing of Jerusalem, followed by a catch up from everyone, candles were lit, and Happy Birthday was sung, no handwashing this time and a toast made. Members then had the opportunity to pass on tips, ideas and information that might be useful while cocooning – the WI prefer that word to isolating.

Members were Zooming again in May with a virtual quiz night, each of the Committee had compiled questions on the topics of sport, music, history, arts and literature, film and TV, food and drink and as always in every quiz, general knowledge.

Committee members read out their set of questions and answers, between rounds members were updated with news from the National Federation of WIs and Essex Federation. For those members not zooming the quiz sheets were emailed or posted out so they could still take part, from the feedback received the quiz was enjoyed by all.

Several members took part in a virtual Show and Tell for the June meeting.

They had been busy baking, knitting, gardening, making PPE, scrubs, bags for scrubs, some are keyworkers or working from home. One member is keeping a journal, noting her feelings and emotions over the past months, this prompted a discussion about how others had felt, coped and had wobbles, we agreed we are all there for each other and to phone or message for a chat if having an off day.

Making the most of the slower pace of life was also mentioned, all those unfinished projects are being worked through.

The cardboard tube challenge provided some interesting items including a phone holder, planters, jewellery set, cat toy and seed pots.

President Jan Curtis said: "In July, via Zoom, member Sherry giving us tips for staying grounded and wellbeing during these unusual times, if you'd like to join us please email or message via our WI Facebook page for the meeting ID.

"Updates about future meetings along with this year's programme, information, photographs, and much more can be found on Facebook at Bulphan Women's Institute and on Twitter @bulphanwi or contact secretary Janet McCheyne on 07752836902."

Members meet on the second Wednesday of every month. You can find out more about the group here.