It was a well-kept secret that the Isle of Wight Federation of Women's Institutes was going to honour one of their own at their annual meeting.

Valerie Andrew had no idea she was going to be given a special award at the event at Northwood House on Tuesday, July 23.

Valerie, 86, of Northwood, has stepped down from her volunteer work with the WI after an incredible 50 years.

She had been a long-standing president of Medham WI and was known for her "ceaseless wish to be of use".

G4 singer Mike Christie was a special guestG4 singer Mike Christie was a special guest (Image: Isle of Wight County Press) County Press editor Lori Little and G4 singer Mike Christie presenting the County Press Shield to Wendy Owens of Freshwater Bay WI, who accepted the award on behalf of Janice Young, named best correspondentCounty Press editor Lori Little and G4 singer Mike Christie presenting the County Press Shield to Wendy Owens of Freshwater Bay WI, who accepted the award on behalf of Janice Young, named best correspondent (Image: Isle of Wight County Press) She amassed 25 years on the IW board of trustees, and around 20 years as a helper in the WI House office, as well as serving two decades as convenor of the group of WIs.

She has been a dedicated worker in the WI tea tents at the Royal IW County Show, and was described by Sue Biss, chair of the IW Federation of WI, as "simply very special to us".

Valerie was given her award by Mrs Biss, and special guest Mike Christie, a singer with vocal harmony group G4.

A clearly very moved Valerie said: "The WI has been such a big part of my life and I really am very proud."

The event was well attended with a packed ballroom enjoying music and a talk by Mike Christie, who regaled everyone with a connection with the WI - when as a child he appeared in the movie Four Weddings and a Funeral as a choirboy and sung Jerusalem.

He also told them about his love of living on the Isle of Wight, and how he was currently busy organising his event Wight Proms, which takes place at Northwood House from August 9 to August 18.

The traditional County Press Shield was presented by County Press editor Lori Little to the best Women's Group correspondent.

The winner was Janice Young of Freshwater Bay WI and the shield was presented to Wendy Owens in Janice's absence.

All women's groups are welcome to submit their reports to the County Press for publication, by sending to editor@iwcp.co.uk