A Royal Morning in Carterton

What a delight to be present at this morning’s official opening of the Carterton Women’s Institute’s beautifully refurbished hall by HRH The Princess Royal.

The receiving Deputy Lieutenant was my good friend Alison Derham, and it was a pleasure to catch up with both Councillor Mark Lygo, Chair of Oxfordshire County Council, and the Mayor of Carterton, Councillor Michele Mead.

The Carterton WI Hall has been at the heart of the local community for a century. Built in 1926 after local people came together to buy the land, it has hosted countless gatherings, celebrations, and community events ever since.

Now, as it marks its 100th anniversary, the hall is undergoing a major refurbishment to secure its future for the next generation. The first phase – a full exterior renovation – was completed earlier this year, allowing the building to reopen to the community in August. Work now continues on the interior, including a much-anticipated kitchen upgrade, thanks to the hard work and determination of the WI members and local supporters who raised the funds to make it all possible.

It was wonderful to see such pride and community spirit on display this morning. The Carterton WI Hall has been a cornerstone of local life for 100 years – and, thanks to this thoughtful restoration, it will continue to be so for many years to come.