A commemorative banner marking 100 years of WI activity in Sidford has been boosted by a £1,000 grant towards its celebrations.

The Keith Owen Fund [KOF] donated the money towards the group’s centenary anniversary in May next year, which includes a service and open day.

Members have spent the last 18 months crafting 100 patches which represents each year of its formation.

It is known the branch was formed at a vestry meeting in April 1919 and the first president was a Mrs Farrant, with vice-presidents Mrs Lang and Mrs Lund, while Miss Darrell held the post of secretary and the treasurer was Miss Bristowe.

The banner will be framed and will be blessed at a service in Sidford’s church to mark the anniversary.

The ladies have until Christmas to finish the remaining 30 pieces which will then be put on long sashes to form the banner, which they can hang on a rail and take with them to events.

Grace Essex, who is among the project leaders, said: “This banner is to proclaim this what the WI does and this is who we are.

“We couldn’t have done it without them [KOF].”