MEMBERS of WI groups across Ryedale have been adapting to the current climate by meeting online.

Social distancing measures due to Covid-19 have meant that meetings have had to be suspended temporarily.

However, WI members are not to be stopped by a national emergency and have quickly mobilised to move online.

Catherine Lockwood, secretary of Appleton-le-Moors WI, said: “The WI’s motto of fun, friendship and education is not forgotten despite the lack of physical meetings.

“Our resourceful ladies are planning plenty of ways to keep in touch with each other, some online and some by post, including shared quizzes and a recipe exchange.

“Past president, Gill Humphreys has been writing and editing the new Pulling Together While Staying Apart webpage, which focuses on positive activities of all sorts to keep members and non-members busy.

“Open to everyone, WI member or not, the webpage has been very well received and viewed from Devon to Durham.”

For more information, go to appletonlemoorswi.weebly.com

Malton WI is also meeting fortnightly via zoom.

President Danielle Collins said: “Our committee was very keen to still offer members a way to connect and be there for one another at this time and so we’ve worked to sign-post members to established local initiatives to support the NHS, plus we have developed a very comprehensive new digital programme I felt it was more important that ever to prioritise social interactions to help combat loneliness and mental health at such a challenging time.

“It’s been exciting to work with my committee to develop a really engaging and fun programme where we’re all continuing to learn new things and get together.”

For more information, email maltonwi@outlook.com