BRANCH members of a Women’s Institute came up with a novel way of coping with lockdown.

Aylburton WI’s ladies decided to put their imaginations to the test by each penning a chapter for a tale of “romance, intrigue and mystery”, which they have then published under the title High Teas & Rough Seas.

Denise Voyce said: “During lockown last year, some of our members decided to write a novel with each participant writing a chapter each.

“This has helped our ladies tremendously with coping through lockdown with having something to focus on.

“We have a completed book of 14 chapters titled ‘High Teas & Rough Seas’ and it has now been printed and nearly three-quarters of our initial stock has been sold at £5 per copy with proceeds going to local charities.

“The story is of Carrie who decides to swap her stressful life in the city for a new life by the sea.

“She fulfills her dream of running a tea room and quickly makes new friends and flourishes.

“When she least expects it love comes calling, but things go awry and she wonders if she will ever truly be happy.

“The feedback from people who have bought the book has been fantastic and we are very proud of what we have achieved.

“Not only have we written it but a photo taken by one of our members appears on the cover.

“We are not aware of any other WIs that have written a novel in this way.”

The title was suggested by WI member Jane Hutchins and anyone wanting to buy a copy of the book can contact Sandra Rickards on 01594 841041.

It wasn’t the only thing to keep Aylburton WI occupied last year, as members also ‘yarn bombed’ the village’s ancient cross in July and then dressed it in knitted and crocheted poppies for Remembrance Day in November, alongside silhouettes of kneeling soldiers made by Brian Rickards.