CRAFT enthusiasts from across the country came out to support a charity event to mark the 10 year anniversary of the organiser’s father’s death.

More than 150 people attended a two-day craft workshop at The Whitehall Hotel in Darwen hosted by HOCHANDA TV regular Jodie Johnson this weekend.

It was organised by Caitlin Jones, who has been raising money for East Lancashire Hospice since the death of her father, Nigel, from lung cancer in 2008, and her mother Tracy.

Miss Jones, 22, from Darwen, said: “My mum’s biggest thing is always crafting, so I thought it would be a good idea for an event to mark the anniversary.

“I honestly thought we’d get about 30 people coming along.

“It’s been so much bigger and better than I ever thought it would be.”

Miss Jones had previously helped the hospice raise more than £30,000  since her father’s death, but had never arranged an event such as this before.
The event was initially planned as a one-day event but after tickets sold out it was spread across the two days.

Guests made a variety of items such as memories books and small MDF storage units.

A raffle was also held at the event to help raise money for the charity.
Craft Channel regular Jodie Johnson said she was delighted to be able to help out at the event.

The 43-year-old said: “Caitlin asked me if I would be able to help out with the work shop.

“For her to do something like this is fantastic. It’s just been so busy, it is great to see.”

Organisers said guests came from Darwen, Durham, Plymouth and Portugal to come to the event over the weekend.

Tracy paid tribute to the efforts of her daughter to raise money in memory of her father, who died 10 years ago on February 12.

She said: “She just puts a smile on faces that need a smile.

“It’s the first time there’s been an event like this in Darwen and we wanted to make sure it was a big one of the hospice.

“We wanted people to come from all over and put Darwen on the map.”

Sharon Crymble, fundraising manager for the hospice, said: “I think its great to see the work Caitlin has done and what she has achieved.

“The support for East Lancashire Hospice events has been brilliant.”

“What its achieved is absolutely amazing, it’s all raising money to help care for patients, that’s what makes a difference.”