Free craft class at Tonic 44 in Surfleet welcomed over 55s to try their hand at something new

A free community programme which ‘makes a difference to people’s lives’ saw a group of over 55s express their creativity and gain new skills.

Craft tutor, Louise Duly led a Kumihimo keyring making session at the Tonic 44 Hub in Surfleet, which allowed participants to meet new people and have fun.

The event was part of the First Time For Everything programme, designed by the Royal Voluntary Service to encourage people to stay active in order to boost their health and wellbeing.

It also gives people, who are older and less mobile, an opportunity to try something new for free in their community. The programme is supported by players of People’s Postcode Lottery.

One participant said: “I thoroughly enjoyed this new craft. I will definitely be getting a Kumihimo disc to make some more. Beautiful threads and colours too with helpful tuition.”

Andrea Briggs, Royal Voluntary Service activity co-ordinator for Lincolnshire, said: “Most people attending hadn’t done this craft before and found it interesting to move their threads around the disc and create an amazing pattern.

“The tutor brought along some lovely silk threads to use and discs to make the varied patterns.

“All attendees were proud of what they had made and we always have a friendly group of people to chat to whilst crafting – we all enjoyed a cup of tea and biscuits too.

“Thanks to the generous support of players of People’s Postcode Lottery, we have all sorts of exciting First Time for Everything activities for local people to try this year.

“Participants tell us how much they enjoy trying something new and chatting with new people at these events – they really do make a difference to people’s lives.”

First Time for Everything launched in 2017 and has since had more than 15,200 people attend various events across the UK to try new activities such as hot yoga, open water swimming, forage walking, chocolate making, line dancing and singing.

The Royal Voluntary Service has also designed a Virtual Village Hall, for those unable to get out and about.

It is a free online activity hub and community that helps people to better manage their health, including long-term conditions. Some of the sessions on offer include exercise and dance, yoga, meditation, crafts, interesting speakers, creative writing and cooking.

The activities take place every weekday on Facebook and YouTube. To take part in the Virtual Village Hall, search @VirtualVillageHall.

To register for a place at a First Time for Every-thing event or for more information, contact Andrea Briggs, on 07468 701994, email: andrea.briggs@royalvoluntaryservice.org.uk

Booking for events is essential as places are limited.