Although
suffering from multiple sclerosis, when she goes to her weekly patchwork
class, Beryl Asquith is just another student.
"In
spite of the MS, I am treated just like everyone else, which is
just how I like it. But I know that if I ask for help, then I am
given all the help I need," says Beryl.
Beryl
joined the Patchwork, Quilting and Applique class not long after
moving to Northleach from London, partly as a way of getting to
meet new people in her adopted home town.
 You
don't have to be up to a certain standard. Everyone is learning.
 |
Beryl
Asquith |
The
class is held in the local community centre, close to her home,
which means Beryl only has to travel a very short distance.
A keen
dressmaker when she was younger, Beryl is discovering new talents
with the patchworking, even though the going is sometimes slow.
"I
don't always have good days, and sometimes I can't hold a needle,
but I am determined to persevere. I have already made a cushion
cover, and I have promised my daughter a patchwork quilt - unfortunately
she has a kingsize bed!"
The
class Beryl attends is very friendly and the members are all very
supportive of each other.
Beryl
says: "I heard about someone who was thinking of joining, but was
worried that they wouldn't be good enough so I rang them and told
them just to come along and see.
"You
don't have to be up to a certain standard. Everyone is learning."
Beryl
and her husband have both become involved in several organisations
within the community and are considering joining other classes.
"Maybe
I'll tackle computers next," said Beryl. "My husband has already
signed up."
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