TO mark 100 years of the Women's Institute a new exhibition has opened at The World of Glass.

'Stand by your Jam' aims to prove there's more to the national organisation than an excuse to swap recipes and sing hymns.

President of the St Helens branch Allison Ward said: "We do have traditional activities such as quilt making, cake decorating and craft work. But we do a lot more too. We've recently learned Bollywood dancing for a special show, organised a visit inside a local prison and enjoyed theatre trips and garden visits. In our first year we also knitted a massive 300 foot scarf for the Dream which comedian Ross Noble bought for £200 and donated to Johnny Vegas.

"Our members have now also taken on the job of decorating the annual Christmas tree at St Helens Central Library."

As well as marking the centenary of the institute nationally the exhibition also celebrates the third anniversary of the Women's Institute of St Helens (WISH).

Formed in January 2012 the group holds monthly meetings as well as workshops for learning new skills and the opportunity to socialise.

Allison added: "We're open to any women aged 18 to 100 and no experience is necessary. You don't have to be a craft guru or a whizz with a sewing kit, just willing to have a go."

'Stand by your Jam' runs until Friday, July 17 in the Godfrey Pilkington gallery and Mezzanine at The World of Glass.