The Women’s Institute has always been something of a segregated affair for ladies.

But the Mile Oak Women’s Institute in Portslade is breaking the mould by making a man an honorary member.

Councillor Bob Carden, who represents North Portslade, was presented with the honour at a coffee morning in aid of Sussex Air Ambulance.

Coun Carden said: “The Mile Oak Women’s Institute is always very active doing lots of things in the community and I have always joked that I should join them.

“I thought it was a lovely gesture. I was quite honoured actually. I couldn’t believe it.

“I guess it’s their way of showing appreciation.

“They nearly lost their hall a while back but I made sure they would be able to carry on. They are still there so I suppose little things like that are why they did this.

“When anybody comes to me for assistance I do my best.”

Val Farrell, president of the Mile Oak Women’s Institute, said Coun Carden was an “absolute treasure” for Mile Oak and Portslade.

She added: “He has always been very kind to us.

“He is just a really lovely guy and really does help.

“If there is a problem we can always phone him up and he’ll do his upmost.

“He’s a valued member of Portslade and has been for many, many years.”