Season 2 • Episode 6
LatestThe village prepares for Nick and Teresa's wedding as the Battle of Britain draws to an end. Pat faces a big decision as Marek prepares to leave, but Bob intends to ruin her plans. Frances fights to clear her name following the closure of the factory, Alison wrestles with her conscience, and a chance encounter leaves Joyce with some unanswered questions.
The story of a group of inspirational women in a rural Cheshire community with the shadow of World War II casting a dark cloud over their lives. As the conflict takes hold and separates the women from their husbands, fathers, sons and brothers, the characters find themselves under increasing and extraordinary pressures in a rapidly fragmenting world. By banding together as the Great Paxford Women’s Institute, they help maintain the nation’s fabric in its darkest hour, and discover inner resources that will change their lives forever.
Acting
Samantha Bond's imperious eyebrow acting alone deserves awards.
Production
Costume porn: tweed, tea dresses, and victory rolls for days.
Writing
Subtle character work — even the village villain gets humanity.
Creator
Catherine Oldfield
Samantha Bond
Frances Barden
Ruth Gemmell
Sarah Collingborne
Claire Rushbrook
Pat Simms
Fenella Woolgar
Alison Scotlock
Clare Calbraith
Steph Farrow
Daisy Badger
Claire Hillman
Leanne Best
Teresa Fenchurch
Leila Mimmack
Laura Campbell
Claire Price
Miriam Brindsley
Frances Grey
Erica Campbell
Mark Bazeley
Bob Simms
Ed Stoppard
Will Campbell
Daniel Ryan
Bryn Brindsley
Francesca Annis
Joyce Cameron
Will Attenborough
David Brindsley
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
ITV cancelled it despite strong ratings because they wanted 'younger' programming; the outcry spawned petitions and a stage play continuation.
Based on Julie Summers' book 'Jambusters,' the real WI made 12 million pounds of jam during WWII — the show's food preservation scenes are historically exact, down to the paraffin wax seals.
US
GB
