FOLLOWING the closure of Okehampton WI, the Inner Wheel of Okehampton has extended a ‘warm welcome’ to its former members to join their group.

The town’s WI closed in February after 85 years because no members stepped forward to take up committee positions within the group.

Former WI president Emily Rees said the WI branch ‘closed with great sadness’, but was ‘hopeful that it may be recreated in the future’.

Since the closure, representatives of the Inner Wheel have extended the invite to any former WI members to think about joining the Inner Wheel group.

Speaking on behalf of the Inner Wheel of Okehampton, Yvonne Potter said: ‘It was sad to hear of the demise of the WI in Okehampton.

‘Many local organisations suffer similar recruitment problems. The average age of members rises, the pool of active members diminishes and new people are not encouraged to join.

‘There are many distractions beyond work and family these days and being active in our local community, whether by following an interest or hobby, or helping others, may not be so appealing as it once was, although anyone involved with community groups will certainly tell you otherwise.

‘The Inner Wheel Club of Okehampton extends a warm welcome to any ex-WI members, or indeed any ladies in the Okehampton and district area, to join us.

‘Like the WI we are a women’s organisation made up of local clubs who meet socially once a month for fun, friendship and service to our local community.’

To find out more about the Inner Wheel, contact membership secretary Margaret Thomas on 01837 52419 or email [email protected]