MEMBERS and visitors to Bulphan WI were absolutely delighted to be back at the village hall for their August meeting, the first inside the hall since March 2020. They even burst into applause after the rousing rendition of Jerusalem at the end of the meeting after they had been entertained by Rev Dr Nicholas Henderson's talk on two of the Tudor queens.

That's not to say they haven't been busy over the past months.

July saw them gather for an outside meeting on the recreation ground, giving them lots of time to catch up. Since the last update they have also taken part in many virtual talks including a bake along, discussions on NFWI resolutions and climate change, making green paper hearts for Show the Love.

A talk by a local auctioneer gave them lots of tips about what to do when attending an auction and what they might find hidden away in their homes.

A talk from Pauline Kidner who runs a wild animal rescue in Somerset resonated with members, especially regarding the loss of habitat and green spaces.

They celebrated Bulphan WI's 92nd birthday with a meeting in a bag containing cake, of course, sunflower seeds, pots and peat free compost, a quiz and almost alcohol-free cocktail, there was also a pack of cards and elastic bands so they could join in with the entertainment provided by magician Wayne Trice.

The annual meeting gave them the chance to look back over the past year and how they had adapted and overcome during unprecedented times.

Updates about future meetings, information, photographs, and much more can be found on Facebook at Bulphan Women's Institute and on Twitter @bulphanwi or contact the group via the secretary on 07752836902 or email [email protected].