The Victorian workhouses of the Fens went under the spotlight during a meeting of the Doddington WI.

Liz Carter explained the history of helping the poor and how the workhouses were formed by the union of several parishes to run and share expenses.

Life in the workhouse, including the Doddington venue, was described and how they eventually closed.

Winners of the competition for something interesting made of fabric were Gillian Wiles, Natalie Jolly, Sue Tyers, Heather Day, Mavis Gamsby, Marjorie Bishop, Chris Oakes, Janine Woodhams and Brenda MacKenzie.

Pearl Charalambos will be at the next meeting speaking about healthy eating.

Tasty snacks will be prepared by the committee.

The competition will be something interesting made of plastic.

Volunteer models are needed for the June fashion show and poems for the centennial competition were requested for judging.

The group are now planning their annual produce show and federation evening.