LOCAL QUILTERS STITCH TOGETHER STUNNING PRIZE IN AID OF NORTH DEVON HOSPICE

"We chose North Devon Hospice as our charity because we've had group members and friends supported by them - we feel it's a very worthy cause."

Tarka Quilters, a much-loved local community of crafters, have created a beautifully handmade quilt which will be raffled to raise money for North Devon Hospice.

The quilt will go on display at an exhibition at Lavington United Reform Church in Bideford on 11th, 12th and 13th September. Raffle tickets, giving one lucky winner the chance to take the quilt home, are available now at North Devon Hospice's shop in Bideford, and will also be on sale throughout the exhibition.

Tarka Quilters began in 2003 with just a handful of members and has since grown into a thriving group of around 40, meeting once a month in Northam Hall.

The raffle quilt has been a true group effort, said Steph Short, Chair of Tarka Quilters: "Most of our members made a block comprised of 16 squares of fabric that they already had at home. These have been joined together, backed and quilted to produce a beautiful quilt for the first prize in our raffle. It is a truly unique design."

She added: "We chose North Devon Hospice as our charity because we’ve had group members and friends supported by the charity, and we feel it’s a very worthy local cause to support."

Steph also spoke about what makes the group so special: "We think that a local quilting group like ours is a brilliant thing, as it gives people a chance to make friends and socialise. The camaraderie is such a positive thing."

Lizzie Hanks, Head of Fundraising at North Devon Hospice, said: "We are so grateful to Tarka Quilters for their incredible efforts and support. They’ve poured so much time, care and creativity into making this quilt, and the result is absolutely beautiful. Huge congratulations to every member involved. We can't wait to see one lucky local person win such a special prize, all while helping to fund our vital care for local families."

The exhibition at Lavington United Reform Church, Bridgeland Street, Bideford, runs from 11th to 13th September, offering visitors the chance to see the quilt and other stunning creations from the group up close, before the raffle draw takes place. Raffle tickets can be purchased at North Devon Hospice's shop on Mill Street in Bideford, or at the exhibition itself.