Pitsmoor Home Fire Girls -

Serving this community for over 50 years.

by Rob Smith

Meeting weekly inside Pitsmoor Methodist Church, Burngreave Road, the Home Fire Girls have been keeping an organisational tradition founded back in 1917.

"It was during the First World War this organisation began, in the Denholm Street Mission off Spital Hill, under founder member Ester Turner," explained Maureen Carr, who has been a proud member for forty years or more.

"When men went out to fight the war the home fire girls kept the kids happy and the home fires burning. We moved to the Methodist church around 1933," continued Wendy Whitehead, another more senior member. "Then the Church, like many other buildings, was bombed during the Second World War," she added solemnly.

Three generations of Homefire Girls were present, bringing a sense of community and extended family. The Homefire Girls meet at the Methodist church every Wednesday between 6pm and 7.30pm. Their activities include baking, sewing, fabric making, glass painting and games.

During summer holidays they hold picnics and coach trips to places like Chester Zoo and the beach. This group has not only sustained itself for well over 80 years, but is looking forward to its continuation well into this millennium.

Yasmin Oldfield who has proudly been a member for twenty-five years said, “Growing up together Rob, we've become like family and seen our children grow up and leave the fold. Many return with their own offspring later you see"

"We're an extended family club and everyone is welcome," added Maureen, "We may be here at the church but the group is not Christian, we could be in a community hall. "

If anyone is interested in contacting the Home Fire Girls feel free to ring Maureen Carr or Wendy Whitehead on 240 3577.