Get the jubilee bunting all sewn up
TWYFORD: A crafter has launched a Platinum Jubilee bunting project and is looking for volunteers to help decorate the High Street in time for June’s festivities, writes Melissa Paulden.
Expert seamstress, Valerie Thorn, has already created 96 metres of patriotic pennants in red, white and blue, but lots more people are needed to turn Twyford into a red, white and blue triumph.
The aim of the celebratory project is to decorate prime locations throughout the village to honour Her Majesty the Queen’s 70-year reign – and for it to have a lasting effect on all those who take part and enjoy the decorations.
Several local groups have already contributed handmade bunting and local businesses and organisations such as Hare Hatch Sheeplands, 1st Twyford Brownies, Twyford Horticultural Society, Cllr Stephen Conway (Lib Dem, Twyford), Twyford
Together and Twyford Parish Council are behind the scheme.
Novice and expert sewers alike are invited to submit as many lengths of bunting as they wish, using new or recycled materials in triangles of red, white and blue.
“Patterns can be red and white spots, blue stripes, union flags - any colourful combinations that you can find and use,” Valerie said.
Inspired by a similar Platinum Jubilee bunting project seen on a Hurst community Facebook group, Valerie began work in her home village.
“I saw that and thought: “Why not do it in Twyford?’ and the idea began.
“I’ve bought new materials but I’ve also used clothing and other pieces of material.
“The hard part is the cutting out – once you’ve got your squares (which you make into triangles) it’s an easy and fun project to do.”
Valerie hopes that the village will come together to contribute to the project, as makers, donators of materials, and as spectators.
“I am asking everyone who contributes to write their name, or identify themselves in some way on one of the pennants. I think it will be interesting for anyone who looks at the bunting to see the different contributors,” she said.
Valerie added: “So many people these days don’t know how to sew but if people are keen to start then this is the perfect project and it’s something they’ll remember being a part to honour such a special royal occasion.”
Full instructions and spare materials can be given to volunteers by Valerie who can be reached at: veridian9@gmail.com
Valerie hopes that the bunting will remain in place until after Twyford in Bloom.
The deadline for submissions is mid-May.