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A project that enables Sefton residents with a range of support needs to acquire the skills needed to make clothing accessories and soft furnishings is proving to be ‘sew’ successful.

The New Threads textile workshop – run by leading Sefton adult care provider, New Directions – is currently based on Dunningsbridge Road in Netherton.

Staff support around 25 service users from across the borough who have needs due to age, physical and learning disabilities or a mental health diagnosis, enabling them to develop sewing, dressmaking and embroidery skills

They learn how to produce the wide range of made-to-measure soft furnishing items supplied by New Threads including curtains, Roman blinds and cushions.

The project also supplies off-the-shelf items such as aprons, bags and runners, as well as a bespoke curtain and garment alteration service.

Seasonal items are also a speciality, particularly at Christmas and most recently at Easter with a select range of Easter bunnies and baskets.

In addition to acquiring sewing and dressmaking expertise, working on these items gives service users the chance to learn a range of useful craft skills, including cross stitch, patchwork, felt work and beading.

This in turn enables them to offer a helping hand to other New Directions activities, for example making costumes for the successful New Directions drama group, New Centre Stage.

Cathy Donnelly, who runs New Threads with colleague Jacky Cooney, commented: “Service users have been making some really excellent items over recent months, and we’re always on the lookout for new customers who may wish to buy them.

“They are justifiably proud when they see the demand there is for the items they have created, and all the revenue generated is ploughed back into the project’s future activities.”

* To find out more about opportunities to see the items created by New Threads, ring the project on 0151 363 7050.

Litter louts who have been caught irresponsibly disposing of rubbish in Sefton have been convicted in court, leading to fines totaling more than £1,400.

Four people failed to appear at South Sefton Magistrates court on Tuesday, March 27 after they were caught littering by enforcement officers.

Thomas Elson of Thornton Road, Bootle was found guilty in absence and fined £640.55.

Rafal Janwa, 37, of Hawesside Street, Southport was found guilty in absence and fined £255.

Nehka Pymehoba of South Road, Waterloo was found guilty in absence and fined £255.

Georgina Ann Walls, 20, of Scot Lane, was found guilty in absence and fined £255.

A spokesman for Sefton Council said: “People need to think twice before just throwing their waste away and court cases like these highlight what can happen if you are caught. Please take it home or use a bin or face a fine.”

For more information about litter, visit www.sefton.gov.uk/bins-recycling/litter-and-fly-tipping.

Formby Library are inviting table-top game lovers to join their new games group.

Staff at the Duke Street library are encouraging scrabble lovers, dominoes masters, monopoly wizards and more to sign up for ‘Of Dice and Men,’ a new board and table-top games group for adults.

Games including cards, scrabble, Connect4 and chess are available but members are encouraged to bring along their own games to play with the group.

‘Of Dice and Men’ takes place every Tuesday at Formby Library between 10.30am and 12pm.

Tea and coffee is also available.

For more information or to sign up please call 01704 874177.