A WEST Cumbrian Women's Institute (WI) president is still flying the flag for the organisation as an 'inspiration' to many.

‘Inspiring Women' is the logo of the WI organisation and Lamplugh WI President Brenda Shaw certainly is an inspiration to all.

Brenda was born 1943 , turning 80 this year . She was born on a dairy farm and has lived in Arlecdon all her life.

Brenda married Fred in 1967 and went on to have two daughters and four grandchildren.

She ran her own newspaper and milk round in the local area, covering 33 miles per day for over 20 years. Starting early each morning and working through all weathers, she still has lots of friends who were her customers.

Brenda then ran a day centre in Whitehaven for the elderly before eventually retiring at the age of 76.

Times and Star: Brenda who took part in her first canoe trip on Derwentwater last year.Brenda who took part in her first canoe trip on Derwentwater last year. (Image: Supplied)

Brenda joined Lamplugh WI in 1970 and has held many official positions, but she has been president for the last nine years.

Brenda has many hobbies but she loves travelling and often arranges group days away and holidays for herself and others... she can fill a coach in no time. She doesn’t just arrange the coach but arranges activities to do en route to keep the travellers entertained, often with prizes available.

An avid fundraiser, she has raised thousands of pounds over the years for local and national charities through coffee mornings, bingos, quiz nights, concerts, and more.

Brenda, even at 80, is always up for a challenge. In 2023 she tried canoeing for the first time, taking to Derwentwater in a Canadian canoe, even though she can not swim.

A spokeswoman for Lamplugh WI said: "Brenda is famous for her rum butter and mince pie making. She makes it for everyone, friends and neighbours. Giving it away free of charge, she is always giving to others in some way.

"Brenda is a happy, kind-hearted lovely lady inside and out.

"She should be person of the week to be recognised for so much she does for other people, selflessly giving her time to lightened up the lives of others, through her organisation, fundraising and giving."