THE secretary of the Somerset County Federation of Women’s Institutes has received the High Sheriff of Somerset Award for her role in the community.

Casey Worral has covered the role for nine years and she received the award today, Friday, January 28 at Bridgwater Women’s Institute from High Sheriff Thomas Sheppard.

Bridgwater Mercury:
Casey Worrall with her award

In a message, the other members of the federation said: "Casey Worrall has been our federation secretary for nine years and is, without a doubt, the best secretary we have ever had.

“She has accumulated a vast bank of knowledge about the workings of the WI in general and Somerset Federation in particular, and has advised and helped four County Chairs during their tenures.

“Casey runs our Federation office with super-efficiency, can find any digital or paper document quickly, and is eager to embrace new technology to keep our Somerset Federation at the cutting edge.

Casey, always smiling, is a favourite of members as they know she can be relied upon to answer their queries about anything WI-related.

“In the unlikely event of her not knowing the answer, she will promise to find out, and always does! She is a true Ambassador for the Federation, always encouraging existing members and recruiting new ones with her infectious enthusiasm.

Bridgwater Mercury:
Casey Worrall and The High Sheriff of Somerset Thomas Sheppard

"Throughout the pandemic, Casey worked from home with access to all the normal facilities of the office and ensured that WI business continued as usual.

“She helped to set up and run monthly talks by leading, popular speakers on Zoom, so that no member felt left out during a time when so many people experienced loneliness and depression.

“During this time she oversaw the move to our current new headquarters in Bridgwater, organising tradespeople at short notice whilst ensuring ‘Business as usual’ for Trustees and members alike.

“Her phone rings constantly as members book tickets for the numerous events and outings that the various County Teams organise.

"In short, Casey is a star. Somerset County Federation of Women’s Institutes just couldn’t function without her."