Cockermouth Women's Institute this week celebrated its first year and soaring membership.

Newly-elected president Jo Crozier said: "We started with 47 and now have 94 members. We are probably one of the biggest WIs in Cumbria."

Jo, of Dale View, has taken over from Faith Watterson, who is moving to Keswick.

"I think it's fantastic how the numbers have grown. We are a really diverse mix of people from young women to more traditional WI members who are over 80.

"We have a great mix of ages and ideas," said Jo.

"I think the profile of the WI has been raised. Now that they can open in towns there is a lot more interest."

Jo and her husband moved to Cockermouth last year from Thailand.

They both work in the Foreign Office and have lived all over the world, including India, Pakistan, Indonesia and South Africa.

"I came here from abroad and sat in the house for two months not knowing anyone. I joined the WI which is a great way of making friends," said Jo.

Their latest project has involved creating a woollen wreath to be placed at the town's war memorial on Remembrance Sunday.

The wreath is made up of more than 75 neatly knitted and crocheted poppies, in various shades of red. 

"It was my idea but lots of people have been involved," said Jo.

"It's our centennial year this year and there have been lots of celebrations but it's also really important to remember the men and women who died in the war."

A further 50 poppies have been made and will be sold to raise money for British Legion funds.