A NEW community group is planning to spread the love in Hillmorton.
The newly-formed Hillmorton and East Rugby Together Community Group (HEaRT) is dedicated to ‘a brighter, more connected and positive future for residents of all ages’.
The group’s first community event will be a week-long expression of love to coincide with Valentine’s Day.
Over 150 people have contributed letters, poems and drawings which will go on display at The Friendly Bench – a mini community garden with seating in High Street near the English Martyrs RC Church, built to bring the community together.
And throughout the week, actors, voice artists, radio presenters and other volunteers will read selected poems and letters.
HEaRT co-chair Jill Dwyer said: “The aim is to allow people on their daily walks to stop for a moment and read the sounds of love for parents, for husbands and wives, for the environment, for daily life as they are displayed along with knitted and crocheted flowers and hearts made by local residents and the WI.
“We have been overwhelmed by the enthusiasm and talent of people of all ages who have contributed to this initiative. We salute their inspiration and creativity.
“The actors, voice artists, presenters and volunteers who have brought their words to life have really made this a special project. Thank you to everyone who has lifted our spirits for Valentine’s Day.”
The display will be at The Friendly Bench from Friday (February 12) to Sunday February 20.
HEaRT was formed from the Friends of East Rugby Group and Hillmorton and Abbots Farm Community Group, which between them in 2020 delivered hundreds of sports and activity sessions to young people in the area despite the pandemic, and provided volunteer support to over 100 residents who were self-isolating or vulnerable.
The group now has over 100 volunteers who support local residents with shopping, collecting prescriptions and companionship.
Co-chair Faye Padfield said: “In these difficult times, it has been wonderful to see the community coming together to support one another, whether practically or virtually. The overwhelmingly positive feedback we have received from residents and volunteers alike demonstrates the important role groups such as ours have to play in supporting and uniting communities.”
HEaRT is inviting creative primary school kids to put pen and crayons to paper to design its logo.
Faye added: “The new logo will be a great way to celebrate the combined group effort to support, enthuse and inspire residents of Hillmorton and East Rugby, improve their local green spaces, and create networks of friendship for a happier and healthier future.”
Entries to the logo design competition must arrive by Saturday February 20. Email [email protected] to enter.
Visit www.heartcg.org for more information.
