17th January 2018

People from across County invited to join Fellowship of Needleworkers

The Diocesan Fellowship of Church Needleworkers offers a warm welcome to anyone in Lancashire who would like to join their ranks at their next meeting which takes place this coming weekend.

This group of people from parishes across the County gather in the Blackburn Cathedral’s Clergy Court building once a month to engage in various projects which last year included a baptism stole (a clergy garment); a wedding stole and a banner - all for members’ parishes.

You can listen to a report on BBC Radio Lancashire about the needleworkers here (listen from about 2h 50m in).

The committed enthusiasts are dedicated to producing fine needlework for use in all church settings, including parish churches and the Cathedral, while enjoying a sociable gathering at the same time.

Chair of the group, Elizabeth Johnston, pictured at far right, with the rest of the needlework group members from across Lancashire at a recent meeting, is a churchwarden at Barrowford St Thomas Church, said: “We welcome new members of any level of experience. Being a part of the group is very much a learning experience!”

The group even has a tutor who helps members ‘sharpen’ their skills.

Elizabeth added: “Past projects have included altar cloths; vestments for clergy in parishes and the Cathedral, as well as banners. We will consider turning our hands to any worthwhile commission!”

The group meets this Saturday, January 20 with the next meeting taking place on February 17. Prospective members should bring a packed lunch and sewing starts at 10am, finishing at 4pm. Tea and coffee are provided and parking is reserved in Dean’s Yard in the Cathedral precinct.

For more information about the group, contact Elizabeth on elizabeth.johnston1935@gmail.com, 01282 612311, or Secretary Vera Young veraeyab@live.co.uk, 01257 251411.