Two branches of the Women's Institute (WI) in Bristol have decided to close. They made this decision because the national organisation banned trans women from joining. The two branches are Longwell Green and Westbury-on-Trym.

The National Federation of Women's Institutes announced the ban recently. This means that transgender women can no longer become members. Many WI members were very upset about this decision.

The two Bristol branches say they are closing in solidarity with the trans community. They do not want to be part of an organisation that excludes trans women. This is a strong protest against the national leadership.

Frances Riley is a committee member of Westbury-on-Trym WI. She spoke to local news site Bristol 247 about the situation. She said that members were asked to sign a form. The form confirmed that they agreed with the new membership rules. Many members refused to sign.

The closures in Bristol are not alone. Other WI branches across the UK have also voted to close. They all share the same reason. They believe the ban on trans women is unfair and discriminatory.

The Women's Institute is a well-known organisation in the UK. It was founded in 1915. It has always focused on supporting women in communities. Many members now feel the trans ban goes against these values.

Trans rights campaigners have praised the branches for their decision. They say it sends a clear message to the national leadership. The message is that excluding trans women is not acceptable to many members.

The National Federation has not changed its position so far. The debate around trans inclusion continues in many organisations across the UK. This story shows how important and emotional this issue is for many people.

The closures of Longwell Green and Westbury-on-Trym WI are a sign of growing resistance. More branches may follow. The national WI leadership is now under increasing pressure to reconsider the ban on trans women.