Community creates lasting legacy of their team work with stained glass memorial

TEAMS’ Spirit has been captured in glass to celebrate a successful 2-year £28,000 creative community project.

In recent months more than 75 older people attending lunch clubs at Teams and Bensham Community Care in Gateshead have been exploring their artistic side with glass artist Sue Woolhouse.

Supported by creative ageing charity Equal Arts, together they have designed and created three stunning stained-glass windows signifying the strong community they live in.

The project to increase activities for older people living in Gateshead has been funded by Comic Relief.

The windows depicting hands, butterflies and a community bus, will take a pride of place in the centre’s recently furbished building.

Bernie Gill, project manager, said: “The project aimed to bring a real boost to the lunch clubs we run. “This funding has allowed us to introduce members to new activities and interests.

“Working with Equal Arts they have had the opportunity to explore their creativity, designing glass work and visiting Sue in her studio.

“They have thoroughly enjoyed being a part of this project and creating a lasting legacy in their community while exploring new interests. We are all incredibly proud of what they have achieved.”

The windows were officially unveiled by Mayor of Gateshead Coun Allison Thompson during a celebratory event on July 13 at the communal lounge in Bolam Street, Gateshead.

Equal Arts artist Sue Woolhouse added: “It was fantastic to discuss people’s stories about living in Teams and Bensham and see how these experiences have influenced the design of the windows.

“The holding hands in one window belong to a couple who have been married for 67 years. It was a beautiful thing to be able to capture. There has been an immense sense of pride in what they have all achieved.”

For more information about Equal Arts projects ring 0191 477 5775 or click here.