Tributes to Queen's Women's Institute legacy

Members of the Women's Institute (WI) marked the third anniversary of Queen Elizabeth II's death by paying tribute to her enduring legacy within the organisation

The Queen was a devoted member of the Sandringham WI for 80 years and served as its president from 2003 until her passing in 2022.

On Monday, the Prince and Princess of Wales visited the National Federation of the WI in Sunningdale, Berkshire.

Trish Kilgour, chair of the WI Berkshire Federation, described the event as an "opportunity for affectionate recollection".

"We had special tea, special cakes, and William and Catherine enjoyed talking about the members' memories of the Queen," she said.

"It was very obvious to us that they had huge affection for the Queen.

"They were fondly remembering her today and it was lovely to share that remembrance with over 20 women in the WI."

She said William and Catherine seemed "very interested" in the WI.

Trustee Carole Seymour agreed.

"William and Catherine were so friendly, so informal - they were so interested in the WI and what we do," she said.

"I think they were aware that it was a great place for people to come."

She said Catherine had mentioned she would "look into becoming a member".

"[That] would be a real honour for Berkshire," said Ms Seymour.

She said the fact Catherine had joined the visit despite the fact she was undergoing cancer treatment "means a lot".

"That's what's so gracious about Catherine... she just comes and forgets her troubles, which I'm sure are immense," she said.

"It was a real honour."

Caroline Day, another trustee, said if Catherine were to join the WI it would highlight the fact it was "a modern organisation".

"Some people don't even know the WI exists and what it stands for," she said.

"It's there for women, any women, any age, any demographic to come and join us."

She said the pair visiting the WI on the anniversary of the Queen's death was a "full circle" moment.