The Rookhope Art, Craft, and Rag Rug Group, based in Rookhope Village Hall, are proving that size doesn’t matter when it comes to making a difference. The group, led by two local residents, provides a warm, welcoming space for residents to connect, chat, and explore various crafting techniques such as printing, sewing, felting, and weaving.
The group were shortlisted for the Lakes & Dales Co-op Community Connect initiative, which offers a share of £9,000 to three community groups and charities across the North of England. Funding will be used to purchase essential supplies for creative projects, including a wall hanging display for the village hall.
Now, they’re on a mission to inspire other local groups of all sizes to seize this incredible opportunity. As part of the Rookhope Village Hall, the pair initially thought they were too small to be considered for such a significant award.
Leanne Bain of the Rookhope Art, Craft, and Rag Rug Group shared, “We almost didn’t apply because we thought we were too small to be shortlisted. But we took the chance, and now we’re encouraging other groups—no matter how big or small—to do the same. The Lakes & Dales Co-op Community Connect initiative is an incredible opportunity, and the funding is a game-changer for groups like ours, enabling us to teach new skills and create beautiful, meaningful pieces for our community. The application process is simple, and we want to see more groups benefit from this fantastic support!”
Applications are now open for the Lakes & Dales Co-op’s Community Connect awards, with shortlisted groups standing a chance to receive £5,000 or £2,000. Don’t miss out—the deadline for applications is Wednesday, 28th August.