CAPTION: Vera Tooke has made over 1400 face coverings so far
Face Covering Mission
Vera Tooke, a Reader at the Hartland Coast Mission Community, has used her time during lockdown to sew over 1400 face coverings, all in aid of Parkinson’s UK.
Vera explained how she got started on this mammoth sewing project:
“I got involved with a local group making scrubs and other things for the NHS, at the beginning of lockdown. One day there was a request from the local surgery asking if anyone could make some face masks for an elderly couple who were very anxious about coronavirus. This was in the days when disposable masks were still very hard to come by, and those that were available were needed for medical staff. As all the other ladies were up to their ears in scrub making, I offered to make these masks, did so, and delivered them.
The Rev’d Jane Hayes wearing one of Vera’s face coverings
“While I was at it, I made some for friends and family. Word got around, and soon I got requests via the village Facebook page. When masks became obligatory on public transport demand increased and the village post office asked if I would put some in the shop. I put a basket on the counter with a Parkinson’s UK collection box and I have not stopped sewing since.”
Now that face coverings have become mandatory in more places, the demand for Vera’s face masks has soared and, so far, she has made over 1400. All the money raised goes to Parkinson’s UK, a charity chosen by Vera whose husband has had Parkinson’s disease for the past 20 years.
When not caring for her husband, making pastoral phone calls, or attending Zoom meetings, Vera enjoys a daily swim at high tide in Hartland Quay.
