A NEWLY-FORMED women's group in Largs has shared its delight after a huge turnout at its first meeting.

Largs Women's Institute - formed under the Scottish Women's Institute - held its first meeting on September 6, when 66 women turned up - and the group revealed that it has the potential to be the largest in Scotland.

Sharon Murdoch, a committee member, told the News: "Our chairperson Wendy Cook enquired to see if we had a group in Largs. It turned out we didn't and never have had one."

"The Ayrshire Federation (who the group will work alongside) said if the group continues with these numbers it will be the biggest Scottish Women's Institute group in Scotland. We were expecting only 30 or 40 women to come along, but they were queueing out of the door which left us completely shocked."

Despite only being a newly formed organisation, there are plans for the future to ensure members are making new friendships and building on lifelong skills.

Sharon continued: "We asked people in the first meeting what they wanted to do and who could offer their skills, knowledge and talent to run workshops. We are in the process of disseminating that information so we can plan what women can do every month.

"We will do our best to provide what they want. We aim to have two activities in every monthly meeting where possible."

Sharon added: "We are still fairly small but I know the local community has a lot to offer that is valuable. We are looking for people to come forward to support us by teaching us a craft, or give a talk.

"We are also pleased to say that we are working with Councillor Ian Murdoch to help us secure some initial funding and build links with the Men's Shed which the women are looking forward to. It is all just exciting and we can't wait to see what the future holds for us."

For more information or to join the group visit their Facebook page at the Largs Womens Group.