Camden News - by SIMON WROE Published: 9 October 2008
Carol Butler, Lore Burns, Lynne Watton (founding member), Alexandra Bolan and Rosemarie Rasch
Coffee and a chat – the first step towards rebuilding a community
THEY might have the marathon servings of tea and cakes in common with the Women’s Institute, but the Lissenden Ladies are offering their Gospel Oak neighbours all jam – without the Jerusalem. Flying the flag for “good neighbourliness” everywhere, the group of Lissenden Garden residents formed last week to bring their community closer together.
The Ladies’ founder, Lynne Watton, hopes through days out, fund-raisers, and weekly coffee meets to reach out to all sections of the community – and that includes men.
Ms Watton said: “There’s a huge pool of different talents on this estate and we could help each other out. We never get together so here’s our chance. They talk about community breaking down – this is the first step towards changing things.”
The ranks of the Lissenden Ladies are already swelling and outings to galleries and guest speakers are being planned for the future.
Built on the cornerstones of Victoria sponge, “support and companionship”, the Lissenden Ladies promise more fun than the Women’s Institute and they’re encouraging others to follow their lead and get in touch with their neighbourly sides.
“If you’re on your own you don’t get out much – this gives you the impetus to do things,” said Alexandra Bolan.
“We would encourage other groups in our community to do the same – you’ll be
surprised how many people will want to be a part of it. Don’t be strangers,” added Ms Watton. * For more information call Lynne Watton on 07813 436 013 or
email lynne.mw@
hotmail.co.uk