Members of Elsenham WI welcomed Saffron Walden-based performer Iestyn Edwards to their April meeting.

Iestyn performed as his alter ego - faded prima ballerina Madame Galina Ballet Star Galactica - with his show 'My Tutu Went AWOL'.

A Guildhall-trained opera singer, international headliner and after-dinner speaker, Iestyn gave WI members a snippet of his performance as Madame Galina - which he accidentally performed in front of the Queen one Trafalgar Day dinner.

This led to him 'accidentally' auditioning for the Combined Services Entertainment, and then entertaining troops in Iraq and Afghanistan - in a tutu!

The WI members heard about Iestyn's time overseas, and his unlikely friendship with Royal Marines Commando Stacks, who he described as "six-two, baby of face, blue of eye, rocky of outcrop".

He also told stories about being left on top of a tank and being heckled at a book signing, and the WI members described him as "a real tonic".

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Elsenham WI president Moyra Jackson said: "It was a fabulous night – hilarious, thought provoking, Iestyn is such a talent.

"It was wonderful to hear our members’ laughter fill the hall."

Elsenham WI has a full programme of activities and is always keen to welcome guests and new members.

For more information, email elsenhamwi@gmail.com or search for Elsenham WI on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.