From litter picking to staging shows, the town's Women's Institute has a long and interesting history and is still going strong with more than 30 members.

To mark its eighth decade, they have decided to travel by a restored, 1920s sightseeing coach to Stratford for afternoon tea.

There will also be a colourful display in the window of Jacqueline flower shop in Market Hill featuring items from the organisation's past.

One of those who remembers its early years is 80-year-old Rosemary Trussler who was born in Southam and joined at the age of 16.

She said: "We had more than double the members we do now, but that's because there weren't so many things for people to do in those days. The Mothers Union and Women's Institute were the main organisations for women to join. We would hold concert parties for the group when we'd sing or put on sketches. One of the dresses I wore will be in the window display."

The group first met in Southam Welfare Hut in Craven Lane - now called the Craven Lane Hall after it was saved from developers this year. But as it expanded they relocated to the parish hall - now the Stoneythorpe Hotel.

Mrs Trussler of Coventry Road added: "In those days doing the housework was a lot harder and it was a relief to get out and meet people.

"Nowadays young women are so busy, but you still find great friendship in the WI. It's also a great place to pick up tips from people and learn something new.

"We have lots of talks and go on trips and get involved in the community. People think there is a lot of gossiping, but we don't have time for that!"

The 36-strong group meets once a month in St Mary's Primary School hall and take it in turns to organise the refreshments.

Women's Institutes were founded in 1915 with the aim of revitalising rural communities and encouraging women to get involved in food production during the First World War. Southam's branch was established some 13 years later in April 1928.

Group president Sheila Goatley, 58, joined seven years ago. She said: "My first experience of a WI was with my mother who used to belong to one in north Yorkshire. This is a friendly group and we are really looking forward to the day out. It's a big occasion and I hope people will wave us off."

The charabanc will set off from outside the Bowling Green pub at 1.45pm on Tuesday (April 15).