A NETBALL group’s Zoom meeting has led to a production line of activity with a village supplying scrub bags to its local hospital.
When the Lanivet Pandas had a video call with their new sponsor Pete Robinson of Fire Safety in Order, Roche, it inspired the ladies to join a volunteer effort, as chairman Kathryn Pearn explained.
’As a member of Bodmin Rotary Club, Pete is involved in helping co-ordinate and supply scrub bags to local hospitals,’ she said.
’He invited our girls to help and our virtual meeting ignited a domino effect. Our Pandas, and, in particular our “sewing” Strollers, turned into a production line with word spreading through the community with offers of support.
’The Lanivet sewing ladies have been fantastic beavering away. And we were thrilled to hear from Laura Jarvie of Herodsfoot who donated a bundle of items, kindly delivered by her partner Ben.
’Then Zandra Patten of Liskeard put the group in touch with Dunelm Mill at Truro who have kindly offered to donate bags, headbands and masks.’
Hearing from nurses and carers in the community requesting help, including some who play netball, turned it into a very personal project for the group, said Kathryn.
It was a poignant moment when Panda fun player Jess Machin, a Healthcare Assistant and Activities Co-ordinator at Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, collected her parcel of headbands and scrub bags.
’I’d like to thank everyone involved in the making of these items,’ said Jess.
’It’s so lovely how the community are coming together to help all us key workers and I know this caring approach has always shown up in our Panda family.”
Future plans for the netballers include a Panda team debut in the league this season, and Kathryn and team captain Tiffany Sweet have been busy behind the scenes organising bespoke team dresses.
’For sure the Pandas will be putting on the biggest party ever once we are out of lockdown. ’We’re renowned for our social scene but you haven’t seen anything yet!’