Welcome to West Town and
Ваckwell WI
First established in 1966, our WI has had a long presence in the village. However in December 2022 the WI closed its doors due to dwindling numbers and volunteers.
In April 2023, we ran a free taster – and over 100 women came out to see what was on offer. We have subsequently relaunched and have created a diverse, inclusive, warm group seeking to educate and support local women and have fun too!
Come and join your local WI group!
Vanessa Pilley, President
Our movement offers women of all ages and backgrounds a unique chance to come together and share experiences, tackling social isolation and building community cohesion.
We Support Women
We support women to learn, develop new skills and achieve their goals throughout their lives, building confidence and improving physical and mental wellbeing.
We Empower Women
We empower women to use their voice individually and collectively to achieve real changes on the issues that matter to them.
A Potted History of Our Group
1902: The land that our WI Hall stands on, was donated by Lord Bath. The first building was an army hut purchased by the members of the WI, by taking up 5 shilling shares. They appointed trustees and paid a £90 deposit, plus £35 haulage and £25 for fencing. Tables were purchased for 11 shillings and each member brought their own chair!
1924: Electricity came to the village of Backwell and was purchased for the hut.
1927: The last payment was made, ensuring the hut was now owned in its entirety by the WI.
1937/38: The kitchen and cloakroom were added at a cost of £155.
1939: Somerset County Council requested the use of the hut as a Welfare Centre for evacuees from Hammersmith School. The hut was used throughout the war, including as a distribution centre for clothing that was to be issued after air-raids.
1945: Backwell’s baby clinic began here and ran in the hall for many decades.
1952: Plans to build a new hall started. A village appeal was launched and £100 loans were made.
1953: Miss Robinson donated £1000 to the hall appeal, ensuring the hall was opened and fully paid for by December 1953.
1955: The car park was laid and central heating installed.
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During the 1980s, a WI Market was held on Fridays in the hall. Items made by local businesses and WI members were sold to shoppers – with many Backwell residents having fond memories of shortbread and viennese whirls produced by the talented WI ladies!
2008: Backwell WI amalgamated with West Town WI.
2022: The WI closed down, but was re-formed in 2023 and a new hall committee was appointed.