AN eye-catching art and craft exhibition weekend at St Chad’s, Saddleworth raised almost £2,000 towards the restoration of the historic church.
The event was the brainchild of Kath Airey and Carol Whittle, who are both members of St Chad’s and Kilngreen Art Group, along with Art Group member Janet Iles.
Their plan was to do something positive to help towards the extensive repairs needed at the church. The event would offer a chance for people to see the work of the art group, the beautiful interior of the church and also demonstrate how it could be used more to benefit the local community.
The exhibition featured art work by members of Kilngreen Art Group, which meets at Kilngreen Church in Diggle on Tuesday mornings, and is led by local artist Sheila Dewsbury.
Janet also displayed many of the themed church banners she has created over the last few years for Café Church which meets in Uppermill bi-monthly.
The six-foot banners depict various themes including Easter, autumn, winter, stillness, joy and laughter.
Other painters and crafters were invited to share the space, including displays of Carol Calvert’s Knitted Novelties and knitted afternoon teas by Janet Hanley.
Associate Priest Reverend Dr Mike Donmall displayed his expertise as a violin and cello-maker, a hobby that has meant more than years of work to create one instrument!
Visitors were also entertained by several musical groups and individuals, including UKAN Do It, a local Ukelele group which meets at the Satellite Centre in Greenfield; Soul Sounds Saddleworth, a lively group who enjoy singing soul music; Martin Holbrook on saxophone; viola and cello playing from Hannah, Tom and Ruby; and organist Eric Kirkbride.
Children’s craft activities were organised by Janet, including pebble painting and decorating small key rings and canvases.
A grand raffle was held, with prizes generously donated by local artists and businesses, and this raised more than £800 towards the final amount.
Carol commented: “A big thank you must go to Speedprint for printing posters and flyers for the event, and Uppermill Co-op for their generous donation of refreshments.
“Special thanks to all the wonderful volunteers who offered their time to help with welcoming and chatting to visitors, serving drinks and selling raffle tickets, all of which helped to make the event such a success.”
You must be logged in to post a comment.