A WOMEN’S Institute held a gathering to mark the official centenary of the organisation. 

Like many WI’s around the county, the Castle Group, made up of members from four villages, arranged a special celebration to mark the federation’s 100th birthday.

While many groups opted to celebrate in the summer, the Castle Group held its special event on the 100th anniversary itself on September 21.

WI members from Ridgewell, Sible Hedingham,The Maplesteads and Wickham St Pauls got together to raise the Essex Federation’s flag up at the Wickham St Pauls village flag pole.

A toast with Prosecco was made and Jerusalem also sung to mark the momentous occasion.

All members then travelled to Sudbury quay, some via the River Stour, where they met up at the Henny Swan and enjoyed a centenary buffet.