OKEHAMPTON Women’s Institute has closed after 85 years.

At a recent meeting WI advisor Ginny Addison-Smith came to discuss the possible closure of the institute if no committee was formed.

She said a president and secretary would be needed to continue the running of the WI.

But no members stepped forward to take up the positions.

Members were given the opportunity to discuss the issue while having a cup of tea.

A secret ballot was taken and the decision was made to close the branch.

During the final meeting members began with the singing of Jerusalem. President Emily Rees then thanked the members for their support during her time as president.

It was agreed by members to keep the luncheon club going as a means of keeping in touch with each other.

The advisor informed members that if anyone in the future wanted to start a new institute they should get in touch with the Devon Federation in Exeter.

The committee and the institute expressed thanks to the people of Okehampton for their support for the branch’s years in the town.

Emily Rees said: ‘Myself, as president, and the secretary were stepping down and everyone was unable to commit to taking over these positions due to busy personal lives.

‘It is with great sadness that Okehampton WI will be closing, but I am hopeful that it may be recreated in the future.

‘I would like to stress that if anyone is interesting in starting up a WI they should get in contact with Devon WI Federation.

‘I would like to thank the entire town of Okehampton for the support received for the WI over the years.

‘It is sad that it is closing, but hopefully someone will get it up and running again in the future.’