A small group of Abingdon residents have set up an organisation called Madrina Oxfordshire to help young people who could not otherwise afford it, to go to their school or college prom. They picked up the idea from a very successful scheme running in Birmingham.

They are asking people to donate used Prom dresses, suits and accessories for students who might otherwise not be able to attend their Prom. This is especially relevant given the cost of living crisis but also helps reduce our environmental impact. They now have support from a local business (BH&O Solicitors) and from the Shopping centre management who have given them a space for storing (and displaying) the donations.

This dress was displayed at John Mason School in an art exhibition in 2013 ( from the blog archives).

Thank you to Rob for this …

Abingdon Silver Group held a social get together recently. While enjoying a great BBQ supper, the talk was of silver spoons, christening cups, rings, necklaces, and other projects planned for September. Members were looking forward to the new term under the guidance of well-known silversmith John Huddleston.

Looking at the group’s website, I see there is a course for beginners – with one space remaining.

John Huddleston made this silver figure of a well-known horse.

On Saturday 21st September Abbey Meadow Lacemakers (AML) held their annual Lacemakers day. Over 60 lacemakers from around Oxfordshire met together to make lace and celebrate their 25th anniversary.

In these days of mass production, there are still practitioners of skilled crafts and people who want to learn them.

The founder members, Gaby Lloyd and Elsie Wood cut the anniversary cake.

Abbey Meadow Lacemakers practice all needlecrafts as well as lacemaking and are always happy to see new members. They meet monthly on every 3rd Tuesday at Preston Road Community Centre. Details of their meetings and contact details can be found at www.abbeymeadowlacemakers.co.uk .