COMMUNITY craft projects run by Stroud District Council have been praised by Gloucestershire’s Police and Crime Commissioner Martin Surl, whose office helped to fund the groups.

Three `Craft and Chat’ groups which are held in the council’s sheltered housing schemes had received a two-year grant from The Commissioner’s Fund which was used to pay for art tutors and materials.

The aim of the groups is to help combat social isolation and loneliness in older people.

Mr Surl said: “We live in a wonderful county which has comparatively little crime.

“Unfortunately, perhaps due to some people’s age and the relative isolation of where they live, their fear of crime is greater than it ought to be.

“Initiatives like ‘Craft and Chat’ are important because they can give older members of our communities a greater feeling of security and confidence and reduce unnecessary anxiety.”

Members of the groups from Stonehouse, Stroud and Nailsworth attended a ceremony on Friday, September 15, during which the Police and Crime Commissioner awarded them a plaque, and was able to see examples of their work which included silk painting, felting and mask decorating.

Cllr Mattie Ross, chairman of Stroud District Council’s housing committee said: “The morning was a great opportunity for the crafters to show off their work to Martin Surl.

“He could see first-hand how the grants from both his office and the council had benefited the groups.”

Anyone interested in volunteering at a craft group in either Uplands in Stroud, Stonehouse or Nailsworth is invited to contact Christine Welsh on 01453 754164 for more information.