October 2020

Since July, Jean’s facemasks have raised an amazing £1,500 towards East Garston Church bell fund. Jean would like to thank everyone who donation fabric and elastic in support of her facemask production, and everyone who bought facemasks from her driveway on School Lane.

Further funds will be used to commission a plaque in memory of Doug Vellender who rang the bells, cut the Churchyard grass and wound the Church clock for many years.

July 2020

Retired dressmaker Jean Cox decided to have a go at making facemasks in early June. She had plenty of pretty material leftover from her sewing days and she thought she might make a hundred pounds or so for MacMillan Nurses. She had no idea how popular they would become and that she would end up collecting £1,400 for this worthwhile cause.

“People have been so generous with their donations,” explains Jean. “One lady heard about them and wanted to buy from me instead of online but she wasn’t able to collect them in person. So I posted three masks to her and she sent me back a cheque for £50. I couldn’t believe it. But the honesty box on the table means that anyone can donate whatever they can afford for a mask.

“I have lost count of how many facemasks I have made so far – it must be about a thousand. I have been very grateful for donations of fabric and elastic from Mary and Lise in the village which means I haven’t had to spend any money on materials.

“MacMillan Nurses are delighted with the £1,400 donation so now future funds will go towards the church bell fund here in East Garston. While there is a need for facemasks, I will continue to make them and it’s wonderful to be able to raise money for good causes at the same time. I have also started making smaller sizes for children.”

Jean’s washable cotton facemasks can be picked up from Etienne at the bottom of School Lane in East Garston but you are welcome to call her on 01488 648320 if you are shielding.