The Young Mothers' Guild

Founded on 14th June 1972
by Thomas Hunter

Prior to his ordination to the Priesthood, Thomas Hunter, who originated from Birtley, came to the parish as a Deacon and saw the need for young mothers to come together and meet as a group. He called a meeting on 14th June 1972 and seven ladies were present. The “Young Mothers' Guild” was inaugurated that day and now, 47 years later, we have 23 members (average attendance 15-20) with an age group between 60-85. Although many of us are now Grandmothers, and even Great-Grandmothers, we still have a lot in common, we have great camaraderie and enjoy each other’s company on Wednesday evenings (excluding school holidays). We have many years of ‘happy memories’ and each one of us has received support from the group during difficult periods of our lives.

In the beginning our meetings were held in the old parish hall and members took part in various activities e.g. arranging guest speakers, visits to local attractions, fund raising for charity, trips to the beach, Christmas parties and pantomimes for the children. Once a month we went to the CMS Club for the evening and when the Parish Centre was refurbished in the 80’s, we began to have our meetings in the Meeting Room of the Parish Centre.

We still enjoy weekly activities including speakers, eating out to celebrate special birthdays, learning new skills, visiting local attractions, going to the theatre or cinema, and an annual weekend away in November. In addition, we raise a fair amount of money each year for charity through enjoyable fundraising activities and are hugely involved with the Annual Autumn Fayre.

So, if there are any "Young-at-Heart-Mothers" out there who would like to join us on a Wednesday evening, you will be made most welcome. Our Group has no formal requirements or obligations and is inter-denominational.

Alternatively, if there are "Mothers of Young Children" in the Parish who would like to start up a similar group of their own, we would be pleased to offer any help or advice you may require.

August 2020