ONE of the oldest Women?s Institute branches in Devon could face closure due to a lack of fresh faces.

Lydford WI, established in 1920, is to go into suspension for three years. The move has been forced by the failure to attract new officers and a committee.

The WI?s January meeting, attended by two WI county advisers, was told the branch would eventually close if the positions were not filled.

Several years ago, Lydford WI welcomed extra members after the closure of Brentor WI, but now finds itself in a similar position.

Secretary Jean Linsell said the 21 Lydford members could attend other local WIs at Sourton or Mary Tavy and Peter Tavy.

She said: ?It is a shame to see the individual branches close but that seems to be the way things are going.

?Lydford WI is one of the oldest branches in Devon and we will be very sad to see it go.?

The WI has been very active in Lydford, arranging talks and projects as well as organising the annual flower show which attracted visitors to the village from across Devon.

Mrs. Linsell said: ?The present WI commitee will ensure that the flower show goes ahead this year, but after that we?ll just have to see. We?d like to see it kept going if possible.?

Lydford branch funds are to be held in trust by the Devon WI treasurer while the record books will remain at the Devon County Records Office.

Lydford WI treasures, such as an antique tablecloth embroidered by hand with the WI motif, will be kept in trust for three years after which they will be donated to the Lydford community or to the county WI.

But one important piece of village history will definitely remain in Lydford ? the tapestry of the institute badge will be on display in Nicholls Hall.

Lydford is the second West Devon WI to be forced to suspend all business in recent months ? the Whitchurch branch experienced similar difficulties.