St Albans’s Mayor joined members from a women’s institute in celebrating the group's first birthday by decorating cupcakes with a celebrity baker.

Councillor Annie Brewster took part in the baking party with members of Herts Belles Women’s Institute (WI) and Great British Bake Off contestant, Charlotte White, on February 19.

About 60 people participated in the celebrations at the Jubilee Centre, in Catherine Street.

Councillor Brewster said: “Herts Belles are celebrating their first birthday in a typically fun way. Huge thanks to Charlotte for teaching us all some brilliant tricks of the trade to create the most stylish cupcakes.

“I want to congratulate this young branch of the WI which has grown from nothing to a healthy membership of around 50 people in one year.

"I wholeheartedly support their objectives of raising funds for charity and learning new skills, and wish them every success in the future.”

Lia Nelissen, Herts Belles acting president, said: "We are delighted that the Mayor of St Albans attended our charity night in September, and that she has joined us again to celebrate our first birthday.

“We started Herts Belles St Albans WI last February as a forum where young women in St Albans District could meet new people and learn new skills. The Mayor’s support is a great encouragement to us.”

During its first year, the Herts Belles WI has raised funds for St Albans and Hertsmere Women’s Refuge and the Jubilee Centre Luncheon Club.