WOMEN whose friendships have survived for more than half a century gathered for a Land Army reunion.

More than 30 women attended the annual event at Sherburn-in-Elmet, which has been held for the last 36 years.

They were all part of the Land Army at the hostel in Moor Lane, Sherburn.

Organiser Doreen Lamb, of South Milford, said: "We are one big happy family. They are like sisters to me.

"Some of the ladies are in their eighties now, but they still come along."

The women travelled from across Yorkshire to attend the event, which was held at the Eversley Park Centre.

They were treated to a hot buffet prepared by Doreen and brought along photographs of their families.

Doreen said: "Our kids have all grown up together. If anyone is ill we are always there for each other.

"I have known them and stayed in touch for over 50 years which is quite unusual these days."

One of the women who went along was dog breeder and international show judge Connie Hartman, who recently judged the West Highland Terrier category at Crufts.

The reunions were originally arranged by Doreen's friend, Margaret Keniwell, until her death six years ago.

Doreen, 76, said: "I do it for her, in her memory. Everyone has a brilliant time. The ladies look forward to it and it is already booked in for next year."

She said: "I loved every minute of my time in the Land Army. They were the best years of my life."

Updated: 08:43 Wednesday, April 02, 2003