WOMEN from the Land Army were reunited 65 years on from their efforts in the Second World War.

Around 250 former Land Army girls enjoyed a Tea Party at Kingston Maurward House, hosted by Dorset’s Lord Lieutenant Mrs Anthony Pitt-Rivers.

The women from the Land Army and the Timber Corps were awarded special badges last year, recognising their contribution.

Following on from that, Mrs Pitt-Rivers invited every member living in Dorset to join her for tea at the historic house, with Kingston Maurward College offering use of their facilities free of charge.

Assistant clerk to the lieutenancy Marilyn Porter said: “The Dorset History Centre put up a lovely exhibition and a lot of the ladies found themselves in the old photos and they were able to give some more information about what was going on.

“During the proceedings the Lord Lieutenant planted a tree in an avenue at Kingston Maurward to commemorate the occasion.”

A total of around 500 people attended the event, including High Sheriff Vicky McDonaugh.

Local Women’s Institute members prepared and served the tea.

Mrs Porter said: “Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves very much.

With the guests kept inside due to poor weather, they received some surprise entertainment from 87-year-old former Land Army girl and dancer Penny Brion who used her dance moves to keep up spirits.