A Welshpool institution is no more

A club has folded in Welshpool just five years shy of celebrating a century since it was first formed.

Welshpool Women’s Institute has suspended its operations after 95 years due to membership dropping down to just 12, and a lack of fresh blood coming on board with funds dwindling.

Member, Joy Evans, broke the news to say they had “very sadly had to suspend their group”.

“Welshpool WI has been a large presence in the community over the years and will be sorely missed,” she said, confirming that the decision was made at their March meeting.

But Jean Hurrell, who advises the Powys Montgomery Federation of WIs, believes that something can rise up from the ashes and has urged the community to support.

“Look out for The Powys Montgomery Federation of WIs’ stand at Welshpool Carnival on Sunday, June 22, and pop along for a chat if you are interested in all things WI and in being part of a new group in Welshpool,” she said.

“If there is enough interest, a meeting will be arranged with a view to forming a new WI. Have a look at https://www.thewi.org.uk/ to discover that it really isn’t just jam and Jerusalem!”