DARLINGTON’S newest ladies group launched this week with dozens of like-minded women coming together to share interests and ideas.

On the 100th anniversary of the Women’s Institute (WI), more than 70 women filled The Mustard Tree Café, in Hurworth, near Darlington, for the first lively meeting of the Pimm’s and Needles ladies group.

The not for profit group, which aims to appeal to women of all ages and backgrounds, was the brainchild of Donna Feeney, owner of Totes Adore, and Charlotte Liddle, of Charlotte Liddle Textiles.

The pair said they couldn’t believe the response the group had received on social media and the queue outside the door on the night.

Ms Liddle said: “We have really enjoyed the evening and are overwhelmed that so many people share our vision and are looking forward to something different with heritage skills but in a modern way.”

While Ms Feeney added: “We were hoping for maybe 40 like-minded ladies but to have signed up over 60 on the launch night and receive such positive feedback is fantastic.

“Ladies have come from all over, not just Hurworth and Croft but Middleton St George, Darlington, Gainford and Catterick.”

The first event featured a swish clothes swap, sponsored by Clean Care, in Darlington, who provided rails and hangers.

Some friendly rivalry took place with lots of popular items, including shoes and jewellery, having to go to names in a hat.

Rachel Vart, from Melsonby, said she was absolutely thrilled to win the sole raffle prize of the evening a spa day for two at Rockliffe Hall, which included lunch and the use of the new spa garden room worth £200.

Meetings for next three months include a vintage tea dance, vintage hair and beauty, making Christmas wreaths and demonstrations and tips on making mocktails.

Wendy Cordery, from Hurworth said: “I saw it on social media and thought it was something that hadn’t been done before for a younger audience and have been inspired to join tonight.”

Nicola Coultas added: “Having grown up here, it is nice to see the community being pulled together again and for us to be able to learn from other peoples skill sets.”

Pimm’s and Needles will meet at The Mustard Tree Café, in Hurworth, on the second Wednesday of every month.

For more information search Pimm’s and Needles on Facebook.