Find out how Wigan Crochet Club is stitching the community together

The café at Sunshine House in Wigan is transformed into a hive of colour, conversation and creativity every Thursday as the Crochet Club, affectionately known as The Crazy Wool Gang, gets together.

From 10am until noon, members bring along their latest projects, pick up new skills, enjoy a cup of tea and, perhaps most importantly, enjoy each other's company.

The group was founded more than three years ago by three crochet enthusiasts – Anita, her daughter Angela and Angela's personal assistant Sandra.

What started with just four people has blossomed into a group of 54 regular members.

And while crochet may be at the heart of the club, members are welcome to knit, stitch or try their hand at any craft they choose.

For the founders, it's not really about how quickly a project gets finished or how experienced someone is – it's about bringing people together.

Sandra said: "We started the Crochet Club at Sunshine House about three years ago. Originally it was me, Angela and Anita. We decided to start the group because we were struggling for things to do.

“There are lots of people in this community who haven't left their house for years, but now they're mixing with people and learning new skills. It's just a fantastic, supportive group and I would encourage anyone to come."

The club has become particularly important for people who may otherwise feel isolated, giving them an opportunity to get out, meet others and form new friendships.

Angela said: "It's great for people who are isolated, to get them out and meet new people and maybe make new friends. We just relax, have a chat, have a brew and can make whatever we fancy. It's such a joyful group.”

"It's open to anyone, any age and any skills. If you're a beginner, we can show you how to start."

The group is committed to making sure everyone feels included. Members of different abilities attend and the ethos is very much one of helping and supporting each other.

Angela added: "We do have a couple of people who have disabilities and we all help each other out and can teach new skills. It's a really friendly group."

For some, the finished crochet, knitting or craft project may be the reward. For others, it's the laughter, conversation and friendships made around the table.

And that's exactly what The Crazy Wool Gang hopes to continue providing – a welcoming place where people can learn something new, meet others and simply enjoy being part of their community.

The Crochet Club meets every Thursday from 10am to noon in the café at Sunshine House, Wigan. Beginners are warmly welcomed, all ages, abilities and crafting skills are encouraged to join.