Singing Jerusalem and eating Victoria sandwiches has been put aside at one Women’s Institute branch after they started getting lessons – in pole dancing.
The saucy moves are being taught to middle-aged WI members based in Little Stanion, Northants., in a bid to modernise the traditionally conservative organisation.
The newly formed group – consisting of women in their 40s and 50s – held its first meeting on Tuesday where they were treated to a kinky display of pole dancing from instructor Sinnead O’Donnell.
Mum -of-two Sinnead, 24, said: “Pole dancing is a great laugh and a fantastic way to get into shape and keep fit.
“I took it up after I had my second child and I taught pole dancing for a year.
“It’s lost its seedy image now and is just a great way to build up body strength, have fun and meet new friends.
“People can either go to classes, or buy their own pole and do it at home. It’s brilliant. It’s physically and mentally challenging and women of any age can enjoy it.”
After demonstrating a few moves on the pole at the meeting at Little Stanion Primary School, flexible Sinnead then invited WI members to have a go at their own sexy routine.
Irene Screen, 33, from Little Stanion, said: “It was the pole dancing that brought me here. I wanted to find out more about it and I really enjoyed the evening.”
Karen Attrill, 53, added: “I’ve never been to a WI meeting before but I’ll definitely consider coming back now.”
President of the branch Rachel MacAllister, 28, said: “It’s not all jam and Jerusalem, the reality is different.
“We’re planning to set up a book club and to hold pamper evenings and wine-tasting sessions, as well as the more traditional activities.”
