Make art and make friends

A BRAND-NEW arts and crafts friendship group is set to launch at Gainsborough’s Salvation Army centre - and they’re looking for people to come forward and get involved.

The Crafts and Fellowship Afternoon will offer visitors to chance to try their hand at art, being creative and playing games - as well as the opportunity to meet new people.

Not only are the Salvation Army looking for people to come along and enjoy the sessions, but they’re also on the lookout for volunteers who can share their creative and practical skills.

“We’re starting the new year with a new start,” said organiser Ann Betts.

“And what better way than with an arts and crafts friendship afternoon?”

“It will be available to both men and women of all ages, and the idea behind it is basically to get people through the door who would normally be on their own and need company.”

She continued: “Once here, they can make friends without having to be lectured at or spoken to like you’re in a church service and enjoy making arts and crafts.”

Ann said that the sessions will feature a wide variety of activities.

“We’re hoping to have gift-making, painting, sewing, patchwork, woodwork, board games and all sorts,” she said.

“We’d like people who are gifted and talented in these areas to come forward and share their skills - please come forward and show people how it’s done.”

Ann added: “We’re appealing to the public to please help us out and to appeal to people to come and make friends.”

“The possibilities really are never-ending - we could even make blankets and send them to third world countries. People can feel like they are really contributing to something worthwhile.”

Gainsborough Salvation Army Major Glenda was delighted that the new scheme would be taking place.

“This is such an excellent idea,” she said.

“The new group will mean that people who might normally be lonely can come along, meet people and start up new friendsips with one another.”

The Crafts and Fellowship Afternoon launches at the Salvation Army Citadel on Beaumont Street, Gainsborough on Thursday 26th January - but discussions will be held to decide on which day and time will be most suitable for regular sessions.

If you’d like to go along to the sessions or to volunteer your services and show people a craft, you can contact Ann by calling 01522 695383.

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