A WOMEN'S Institute branch held a 90th birthday to remember with a three-course lunch attended by over 80 members and friends.

Buckhurst Hill WI saw in its tenth decade at St James United Reformed Church, in Palmerston Road, with special guest Julie Alen, the chairwoman of the Essex WI Federation.

Committee member Pat Price read a humorous poem and barber shop quartet R2G2 finished the evening with a performance of nostalgic melodies.

Committee member Maureen Noble said: “The first president in 1919 was Miss Teresa Buxton of Knighton whose former back garden is now enjoyed by all as part of Knighton Woods.

“The current president, Flora Flowers, said that in re-visiting the archives, she was fascinated by the wide range of interests embarked upon by early members just after the First World War and later generations have continued to help the community and entertain and educate themselves.”

Buckhurst Hill WI meet on the third Wednesday of each month at 7.30pm, at St. James's United Reformed Church.