New free community classes launching in Newbold Verdon, Desford and Ratby

Residents of Newbold Verdon, Desford and Ratby are being offered the chance to try two new free activity classes that begin this autumn.

The classes have been organised by the Borough Council’s Community Houses following the success of a range of community projects and activities in other areas.

There will be two classes on offer, ‘Community Kitchen’ and ‘Craft & Chat’. A class will run every week, term time only.

The ‘Community Kitchen’ has recently been piloted at Earl Shilton, Wykin and Barwell Community Houses with great success.  Currently over 42 members come along to the kitchens, many of them having their first go at cooking. 

‘Craft & Chat’ activities will be alternating with the ‘Community Kitchen’ and will introduce individuals and families to a range of arts and crafts.

No previous experience in cooking or crafting is required, both groups are free and all materials, ingredients are supplied. While pre-booking is helpful, it is not required and residents are welcome to simply turn up.

Venues and times for the first sessions are as follows:

• Newbold Vernon Baptist Church, Tuesday 2 October, 12.30pm to 2.30pm
• Ratby Methodist Church, Wednesday 3 October, 10.00am to 12 noon
• Desford, St Martin’s Church Centre, Thursday 4 October, 12.30pm to 2.30 pm

Funding for these activities has been secured from Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council and Leicestershire County Council. The sessions will be led by experienced volunteers.  

Rachel Duncan, Community Development Co-ordinator at Earl Shilton Community House, said: “We are so pleased that we are now able to widen the reach of our community classes. Our Community Kitchen has proved extremely popular. Residents have had the opportunity to learn about cooking, nutrition and how to waste less and save more. The classes will be led by volunteers who have taken part in the course previously.

“The ‘Craft and Chat’ group enables people to take up a new hobby, enjoy arts and crafts and at the same time meet other local people. We look forward to welcoming residents to these new classes.”

Hinckley & Bosworth Borough Council Leader, Councillor Mike Hall, said: “It’s great that these classes are being delivered in different communities across the borough. They are a way for people to get together and try something different, and maybe make new friends. 

“The really good thing is that no experience is necessary and everything you need for the classes is supplied. I hope people take up the opportunity and have an enjoyable time.”

To find out more please contact Rachel or Shirley on Tel. (01455) 255941 or email: earlshiltoncommunityhouse@hinckley-bosworth.gov.uk