Epic honour for Whitehead's Woollen Wood artists

The Epic Awards shine a light on the sector and aim to inspire others to get involved and participate in artistic and creative activities.

They are run by Voluntary Arts with the support from Spirit of 2012, which funds projects that empower people to get out, be involved and feel better. The judging panels have shortlisted eight groups from Ireland, six from Wales, eight from Scotland and nine from England.

Lighthouse Yarns, an arts and crafts supply shop, helped lead an initiative to decorate the community orchard of Diamond Jubilee Wood with woollen creations, establishing the first Woollen Wood in Northern Ireland at the same time.

The aim of this project was to combine the arts and environment to draw new audiences and encourage them to craft and learn about conservation and biodiversity.

Robin Simpson, chief executive, Voluntary Arts, said: “Each year the Epic Awards bring to light some of the finest examples of community-based voluntary arts groups that involve people across Republic of Ireland and United Kingdom every day. We are extremely proud to be able to celebrate their stories with these awards.

“The shortlisted projects – from knitting, music or theatre groups to community festivals and creative work with young people and disabled people – brilliantly showcase the skill, innovation and hard work that goes into keeping the creative spirit of local communities alive. Each one of the 31 shortlisted groups is truly EPIC - join us in thanking them by voting in the People’s Choice Award.”

More information at: www.epicawards.co.uk