This week, we're delighted to celebrate news of two people from the parish of Sutton Hill which is made up of two churches one in Sutton Hill and the other in Woodside, located on the edge of Telford, the most northerly point of our diocese. The individuals received a very special award from the local Mayor for their service to the community.
Gwen and Margaret, who are members of Sutton Hill Church, enjoy a shared passion for sewing. What began as two friends discovering their mutual love of needlework soon became something far more meaningful. Responding with Christ-like compassion to the needs they witnessed around them, Gwen and Margaret began creating "Twiddle Blankets" – specially designed tactile blankets that provide comfort and sensory stimulation for those living with dementia and others who benefit from keeping their hands active.
This humble ministry has grown into a remarkable testament to faithful service, with over 100 blankets lovingly crafted and prayerfully given to individuals and care homes. Each blanket represents not just hours of careful stitching, but a tangible expression of God's love for those who may feel increasingly isolated by their condition.
In the spirit of good stewardship, Gwen and Margaret have resourcefully gathered materials from their own supplies, generous donations, and thoughtfully repurposed items from charity shops. Their only consistent expense is a particular type of cotton thread essential for ensuring every element on the twiddle muffs is securely and safely attached. This detail speaks to their commitment to excellence in all they do.
Local Councillor Helena Morgan, Mayor of Madeley Town Council, contributed funds from her mayoral budget to purchase this cotton thread after learning of their work. In recognition of their selfless service, Mayor Morgan and Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Shropshire Gareth Williams presented Gwen and Margaret with a Mayor's Award on Monday, 28th April – an unexpected blessing that brought joy and encouragement to these faithful servants.
Revd Preb. Dawn Taffinder, Vicar of Sutton Hill & Woodside, shared: "I am immensely proud of Gwen and Margaret's dedication and creativity. Their Twiddle Blankets ministry perfectly embodies what Jesus means when He calls us to love our neighbours. Gwen and Margaret’s work reminds us that ministry is about a faithful response to the needs we see around us."
The same evening, two other church members from St Michael's Church in Madeley received awards. Colin Price and George Holt were recognised for their service to the community in managing and organising all the speakers, sound equipment, and other requirements for the annual Remembrance Day service in Madeley centre for the last seven years. The service now has about 500 attendees each November.
-ENDS-