Hundreds of Women’s Institute members were given a summer treat at a jam-packed country house event in Beaconsfield earlier this month.

Bucks WI was inundated with ticket requests, with more than 300 members applying for its annual Pimms and Ploughmans event at Hall Barn, in Windsor End.

Trustee Pat Poole said the WI had to hold a ballot, with 130 members being allocated tickets.

She said: “It was a lovely day and a very successful event. The Hon Jenefer Farncombe, whose home it is, complimented us on our team work and how well we worked together.”

Mrs Farncombe gave a short talk about Hall Barn, and guests were treated to the piano, singing by county treasurer Jacqueline King and a walk-about of the grounds.

Member Rowena Irving, who attended the event, said in an email to organisers: “Many thanks from the Ballinger 3 for a splendid day on Wednesday.

“As usual with a WI event it was brilliantly organised and a very sociable occasion with a chance to get to know members from other WIs.”

Pat added: “This just goes to show WI ladies like food, drink and a chance to go to a country house. Especially one that isn't generally open to the public.”