Group hits 70 years of circling

Dewsbury Ladies Circle is one of the oldest circles in the country, set up by the wives of members of the Round Table organisation.

Andrea Peel, who chairs the Dewsbury branch, said: “I think it’s a huge achievement that a local organisation has managed to continue to grow and develop to be here celebrating its 70th year.”

The group is aimed at women aged 18-45 from all walks of life and attracts women from across the area, with members from Mirfield, Tingley and Cleckheaton.

They celebrated the group’s 70th birthday at Gomersal Park Hotel with past members, including 95-year-old Bessie Garthwaite, and members from other groups in the region.

The event raised £272 for North Kirklees Women’s Refuge, but the group has also raised money for Kirklees Hospice and the Teenage Cancer Trust in the past.

They meet on the first Thursday of every month to plan charity events and socialise at each other’s houses or in restaurants.

Vice chair Tracey Vause said: “It’s not crochet patterns and swapping recipes. Most of us work so it’s something nice to do in our free time.”

Interested women can call Andrea Peel on 01924 499592.