IT was on March 30, 1939 that the ladies of Llangynidr decided to form their own branch of the WI.

At the inaugural meeting held in the public hall chaired by Mrs Henderson of Talybont-on-Usk with 37 ladies present, the first officers were appointed: Mrs Wellwood became President, Mrs Gibbs, Vice President, Miss Nancy Bevan Secretary and Miss Lewis Treasurer. This meeting was therefore the beginning of the WI in Llangynidr and the start of years of support, involvement and activities for the women of the village.

So on a sunny afternoon last week, members of Llangynidr WI enjoyed an afternoon of celebrations to commemorate 70 years of WI presence in the village. All current members attended, and guests included Past Presidents ,former WI members ,the Right Honourable Shan Legge Bourke, Rose Morris the WI County Chairwoman, County Councillor Rosemarie Harris and Community Council Chairwoman Margaret Price. A delicious three course lunch was prepared by Margaret Davies of Cwmdu with help from Maureen Probert of Talybont. It was a wonderful afternoon of reminiscing and chatting to old friends, some of whom had moved away and who were delighted to learn that the WI was still active and thriving.

The current President, Celia Wilson gave the opening address which included highlights of local WI life since its inception. It was highly amusing to listen to what went on within the branch during the war. Activities ranged from establishing a school savings plan to distributing cod liver oil and fruit juice to parents of children under five years of age.

The highlight of the day was the entertainment provided by the guest speaker, the Rev Michael Hodgson of the Brecon Beacons Pastorate, who gave us fascinating facts and a musical trip through the decades from the 1930's to the present day. Everyone had a good singsong and thoroughly enjoyed a nostalgic trip down memory lane.

The closing address was given by the County Chairwoman, Rose Morris who expressed her delight at being present at such an auspicious occasion and was pleased to see that the branch was going from strength to strength.

The anniversary cake was cut and a toast to the continued success of the branch was made.