A FUN and friendly Women's Institute has been named the best in Dorset.

Members of the Dorchester Morning WI scooped the WI of the Year county title for demonstrating that they do a lot more than discuss recipes.

They received the honour after judges reviewed a year in the life of the group.

Assessors were impressed by Dorchester Morning's packed schedule of trips and activities.

Vice-chairman Hilary Lancashire puts its success down to its 35 members' camaraderie.

She said: "There are a lot of different ladies from all different walks of life and ages and everyone is amazingly lovely and caring.

"There are lots of things that go on behind the scenes when people have been ill and everyone has pulled together and been supportive.

"They really are a great bunch of people."

The group has an activity every Thursday and lunches, theatre outings and day trips.

Ms Lancashire said: "A lot of WIs just have one meeting once a month, but we feel that if someone is prepared to organise something then people will turn up."

Dorchester Morning WI will now go on to battle it out for the national title of WI of the Year.

The timely win coincides with the group's birthday celebrations.

Ms Lancashire said: "We don't know how old the group is, but we're going to be celebrating the win and our anniversary at our next meeting."

The group meets at 10am on the second Thursday of every month at the Conservative Club. Call 01305 267750 for more information.