THE venue was back to the hall after the water problem had been fixed.

A date in June was fixed for a celebration strawberry tea for the institute's 70th birthday.

Broom WI started in January 1931 in an old corrugated shed belonging to Francis Adkins, who allowed the place to be used as a village hall. Although poorly lit and draughty, villagers were pleased to have somewhere to meet.

The WI was the first organisation for women in the village but, in time, the ladies were determined to one day buy their own hall, which they did, and they also managed to buy the land as well. To reach 70 years is quite an achievement for a small group.

The speaker was John Powell and his wife, who spoke of their knowledge of jigsaws.

Mr Powell displayed a number of valuable old examples found in jumble sales or old shops and markets.

The competition for a decorated egg was won by Joe Parker, who also won the raffle.