Tree helps Hamsterley WI mark it anniversary

THE 90th anniversary of the Women’s Institute (WI) in Hamsterley has been marked with the planting of a rowan tree which generations to come will continue to enjoy. 

Women’s Institute members from the village gathered around the newly planted tree ahead of their meeting on Tuesday, July 12, to mark not only their own anniversary which they celebrated two years ago, but also 100 years of the County Durham WI Federation and the centenary of the national body.

Hamsterley WI president Janet Embelton said the local branch was formed at nearby Prospect House in 1925, the home of founding member Bessie Brown-Humes.

Her daughter-in-law, Mavis Brown-Humes continues to be a member, of Hamsterley WI.

Explaining why the WI chose to plant the tree, Ms Embelton said: “Because it lasts a long time.

“As the WI has lasted 100 years, we hope this tree will last 100 years so that it can bring enjoyment for generations to come, just as the WI has brought enjoyment to us.”

Also known as a mountain ash due to the fact that it grows well at high altitudes, the rowan tree can live for up to 200 years.