Queen, Sophie and Anne attend WI’s annual meeting – and has trouble cutting the cake!

Today The Queen opened the annual meeting of the National Federation of Women’s Institutes, also celebrating its 100th birthday. The Princess Royal and Countess of Wessex also attended at the Royal Albert Hall.

Her Majesty received the commemorative baton, which has been travelling across the country, to celebrate the links of friendship and community developed through the organisation. The Royal Albert Hall was the baton’s last stop, its journey having begun in January last year.

The Queen gave speech and praised the institutes work: ‘In the century since the first WI groups were formed in North Wales and in Sussex, so much has changed for women in our society.

‘There has been significant economic and social change since 1915. Women have been granted the vote, British women have climbed Everest for the first time and the country has elected its first female prime minister.

‘The Women’s Institute has been a constant throughout, gathering women together, encouraging them to acquire new skills and nurturing unique talents. In the modern world, the opportunities for women to give something of value to society are greater than ever, because, through their own efforts, they now play a much greater part in all areas of public life.

‘Over the past 100 years, the WI has continued to grow and evolve with its members to stay relevant and forward-thinking. In 2015 it continues to demonstrate that it can make a real difference to the lives of women of all ages and cultural backgrounds, in a spirit of friendship, co-operation and support.’

The Queen also attempted to cut a celebratory cake, though found it a little difficult, and needed assistance from her daughter and daughter-in-law.

Julie Clarke, Chair of North Yorkshire West, said: ‘The Queen said how much she loves a good fruit cake and could tell it was a good, rich one as it was dense and difficult to cut.

‘We gave each of the ladies one to take home and Princess Anne said it was a good thing as she loves to take fruit cake sailing with her. She told me: “We always cut these cakes and never get to try a bit or take one home! I am so glad I can now.’

Feature photo:  Splash News