Bowes crafters provide clothes to the needy in Africa

A GROUP of rural sewers are putting their skills to good use by providing clothes to needy people in Africa.
The group, which has been running for almost 30 years in Bowes, began producing clothes for Little Dresses for Africa this month. Members hope to make their first delivery before their six week session ends on October 20.
Led by renowned milliner and seamstress Ann Gill, the class wants to get more people involved. Mrs Gill said: “It was something I read about in the summer and thought I’d like to do it.”
Several members of her class agreed and have also become involved. Along with making pillow dresses for girls, the class of about ten is also making ‘Britches for Boys’, which will be sent to the charity as well. She said: “Teesdale is a rural area and people are very resourceful, so many are interested in sewing. There is also a social aspect to it.”
Mrs Gill, who attended the class at Bowes Village Hall more than 20 years ago before completing her degree in entertainment design craft at Cleveland College of Art and Design, took over tutoring the group about a year ago. In her time, the designer has worked on costumes for the likes of Zoe Wanamaker in the television programme Mr Selfridge, as well as the Dancing On Ice stars. She is now in talks with her old college to give tutoring to students there.
Already, she has been asked to tutor at the respected Marlborough Summer School and at Higham Hall, near Cockermouth. She said: “It is an honour. I am a little apprehensive, but I will be fine.” Anyone interested in helping to who make clothing for the charity or would like to join a sewing workshop can contact Mrs Gill on 07821 198111.