Three-part documentary about the Women's Institute as it finds its way into the 21st century, revealing the lives of a formidable group of women holding communities together across Britain.

A magnificent Georgian house set in 17 acres of garden, Denman College is often described by WI members as its jewel in the crown. Named after the first national WI chairman, Lady Denman, it is the epitome of the organisation's core belief in education for all its members.

Women from the length and breadth of the country come to Denman to learn, but also to socialise, relax and have fun. Doris tells a tale of two unhappy marriages survived with a strong spirit. Susan is at a crossroads, 50 last year and with her children now grown up, her time has come at last, but what should she do? Dorothy and Liz are very different characters with very different backgrounds - maybe that's why they like each other so much. Each tale is narrated by the women themselves and is touching, poignant and at times funny.

Interweaved among them is the story of the Denman Committee's chairman. Newly-elected Anne is determined to give the drawing room and bar a makeover, but first she has to convince the WI’s formidable Denman Committee that this is how precious funds should be spent. Show less