Popping along to learn new skills

Crafting and gardening skills were the order of the day at a special pop-up event in Leominster recently. Age UK Wyvern ran the session at Norfolk House on Etnam Street for older people to try their hand at a variety of practical activities, as well as enjoying a drink and a chat.

Age UK Wyvern are running a series of “Pop-up Sheds” in Leominster, Weobley and Kington, aiming to reach older people who may not be able to get to the usual venues for social events. All the locations are accessible and offer a fun, informal atmosphere to try new crafts and activities with support.

Attendees certainly gave the Leominster event the thumbs up. Gemma Gollard, who was experimenting with different designs for clay jewellery, had this to say, “I always find that company, and being with friends, takes my mind off things. I might need a bit of help because sometimes I need some extra confidence to do things.”

Other people were able to go home with rose and lavender cuttings which they had learnt how to propagate and were hoping to grow in their own gardens. Caroline Klein of Leominster commented, “I love gardening. It’s great to meet other people doing something like this.”

Caroline Savage from Age UK, explained the rationale behind the Pop-Up Sheds, “We know not everyone can get to our regular social events, so we wanted to run a series of sessions in different locations. Attendees can try new skills, usually based around crafts, DIY or gardening in a safe and welcoming environment. This is a new venture for us and we’re very excited to be able to reach more people in the communities where we work.”

Age UK Wyvern are bringing more events like these to Herefordshire over the coming months. Everyone over 50 is welcome to attend and the sessions cost just £3 to cover the cost of materials.

The following events have been organised:

• Friday 12th September
  • Community Rooms, Burton Gardens, Weobley
  • From 10.30am
• Tuesday 16th September
  • Community Rooms, Markwick Close, Kington
  • From 11:00am
• Friday 19th September
  • Norfolk House, Leominster
  • From 10.30am