TILSTOCK Women's Institute have been trying their hand at floristry at their most recent meeting.

The WI Floral Art Show was well supported with over 42 entries in seven different categories, which was quite an achievement considering the recent rain and wind which had taken its toll on everyone’s gardens.

The winner of the Novice Class, for an arrangement in a cup and saucer, was Hazel Loftus. She was presented with the Rose Bowl by president Sue Armstrong.

The overall winner of the show, gaining the most points across all the categories was Christine Lea who was presented with a Shield, kindly donated by Rose White.

Mary Probin and Sheila Latham came joint second and Sylvia Quartley, Helen Thompson and Hazel Loftus were joint third.

The WI also report that the recent coffee morning held at the Whitchurch Civic Centre was well supported and raised £246 for WI funds.

Following on from the coffee morning, a report of the Shropshire AGM, was held in April at Theatre Severn in Shrewsbury, by delegate Sue Armstrong.

The AGM celebrated 100 years of the Shropshire Federation and was attended by the national president, Lynne Stubbins.

The main speaker, Eran Cutliffe OBE spoke of her work with the Crown Prosecution Service, rising through the ranks to become a Specialist Prosecutor for the Special Crime and Counter Terrorism Division.

She was responsible recently for bringing one of the first convictions under the Modern Slavery Act.

Then followed a report of the Annual NFWI meeting in Bournemouth last week. Two resolutions, Decline of Local Bus Services and Don’t Fear the smear were passed.

A members evening then took place. Hazel Loftus entertained the group with her early life as a window dresser for Marks and Spencer.

Helen Thompson told of her work as a Magistrate, helping to put on a scenario at this year’s Crucial Crew in Telford to show children the Consequences of having a criminal record.

The meeting ended with tasty cakes provided by Debbie Fullard and teas by Mary Phillips.