A WOMEN’S INSTITUTE group is urging residents to ‘shop local’ over Christmas so cash goes back into the Malvern economy, writes John Tait.
The members of the Broadheath with Rushwick WI spoke ahead of their craft fair which takes place at Broadheath Village Hall between 11am and 4pm this Saturday, November 16.
A spokesperson for the group said: “Research shows that a significantly higher proportion of every £1 spent with small independent businesses will stay in the local economy than of the same sum spent with larger national companies.”
Many of the craftspeople live within half a mile of the hall which hosts the group’s monthly Wednesday morning meetings as well as their Christmas shopping event.
WI member Susie Humphreys runs Willow Tree Yarney from her Sinton Green home making sustainable gifts. Her range includes plastic-free food wraps, soap pods and dishcloths crocheted using eco-friendly yarns.
Another member Jackie Hawkins is selling Kumihimo jewellery and fused glass decorations.
Jenny Smith has been creating handmade goods. She has been busy sewing festive bunting, swags, gifts and hair bows at her home in St Johns.
Other crafts available include handmade Victorian cards, fine art, handwoven scarves, candles, painted map stones, and hand-poured acrylic gifts.
Rachael Hodgetts, who has organised the event, said: “We have so many marvellous makers in Worcestershire, working all year round to craft unique items and awesome art in their homes and studios.
“We hope that people will come along to start their Christmas shopping by choosing some wonderfully unique gifts from the people who produced them and that they will enjoy some festive WI refreshments while they are here.“
For more information call 01905 641531.
