THE Cumbria-Westmorland Federation of Women's Institutes were joined at their autumn fundraising lunch at Kendal's Castle Green Hotel by former MP and Government Minister Edwina Currie.

More than 70 members attended the afternoon’s proceedings, during which Mrs Currie spent time talking to the assembled guests about her meteoric political career rise, firstly as city councillor in Birmingham City and then her 15-year stint as MP for South Derbyshire.

She regaled her audience with tales of working alongside some of the biggest names in British politics during the 1980s including her time spent as an aide to Sir Keith Joseph at the Department of Education and Science.

Infamously, she was also a government minister at the Department of Health and Social Science until her resignation in 1988 following the investigation into the health risks of salmonella in eggs.

She also talked about her life after politics as a successful published author and as a broadcaster hosting a variety of radio and TV shows.

Mrs Currie has also made appearances in a number of high-profile shows, such as Strictly and I’m A Celebrity and has even been known to tread the boards on stage, playing the role of the Wicked Queen in Snow White. She let slip that her character’s inspiration came from none other than Margaret Thatcher.

As one of the WI’s close supporters businesswoman Maria Whitehead, co-owner of Hawkshead Relish, was invited to attend in the afternoon to showcase her new recipe book featuring a selection of her food company's products.

Karen Hanks, chairman of the Cumbria-Westmorland Federation of Women's Institutes, said: "There’s no doubt that Edwina Currie has been an inspirational figure in British politics for many years.

"It was a real pleasure to share the afternoon with her and a fitting way to round off a memorable year, especially as we set out to celebrate what will be our centenary year in 2020 as we mark the important role businesswomen linked to the federation have played and continue to play in Cumbria’s economy.’’

Mrs Whitehead said: "It was a great pleasure to have the opportunity to spend time with the Cumbria-Westmorland Federation of Women's Institutes and to showcase my recipe book ‘Embellish With Relish’ and some of our award-winning products, and also to have the opportunity to meet Edwina Currie.

"To hear about her time in government, career as an author and her insight into the world of broadcasting, both on the radio and on TV made for a fascinating afternoon.’’