A WOMEN’s Institute branch in Powys, which was established nearly 80 years ago, has announced it has closed, due to dwindling numbers.

Felindre WI announced that the group had ceased activity on November 6, having started 77 years ago.

“It is with great regret that we report the closure of Felindre WI, due to the very low number of members,” said press secretary Maggie Flanders.

“There have only been six members of Felindre WI for the past two years and it is just not viable to keep going with so few, particularly as we are now all over retirement age.”

Founded on October 24, 1947, and with over 30 members in its hay day, the WI, which draws its members from the Knighton area, mainly met in Felindre Village Hall.

“Several former members have moved away from the area or have sadly died,” added Maggie, who revealed how she became a member 17 years ago, in order to meet new people, after moving to the Felindre area.

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“One of the main reasons for the Women’s Institute, as it was originally named, first being formed was to give rural wives an opportunity to do something and meet with other like-minded women outside of the home.

“But things have changed for women now and although we have tried to make our monthly meetings as varied as possible, with interesting guest speakers or outings, younger women locally are now either in full-time employment and/or have family commitments or other interests.

“I personally have been a member of Felindre WI for 17 years and our other ladies have all been members for far longer than that. 

“I joined when my husband and I first came to live in Felindre and the WI helped me to get to know local people.

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“I have very much enjoyed the opportunity to make good friends and I look forward to remaining in touch with them in the future, but I will very much miss our monthly activities as a formal group.”

A charitable donation and a commemorative plaque have been given to the village hall committee to remember the WI group.

In future weeks, the now former members plan to produce a brief history of the highlights of the WI, covering the past 77 years.