PEOPLE are being invited to try their hand at basic sign language at a course at Wincham Community Centre.

The ‘sandwich and signing hour’ is being run by Wincham Village People, and will be led by Julie Jones from Hartford.

The five-week course is the idea of Wincham Parish Council chairman Annie Makepeace, who has learned basic signing and decided to organise a course in response to interest from local residents.

“There is genuine interest in signing, especially among people who work with children,” said Cllr Makepeace.

“It is easy to learn, and can be used in numerous situations in everyday life. It is another level of communication, and allows people to support those who have hearing problems.

“There are an awful lot of people who are hard of hearing, and signing opens up a world of communication.

“It is easy to learn, a lot of fun and very social, and I have found it very useful.”

The course runs every Tuesday from midday to 1pm from September 22 to October 20, and costs £15 for the five sessions.

“We are inviting people to bring a sandwich or a snack, we’ll put the kettle on and learn how to sign with Julie,” said Cllr Makepeace.

The signing sessions will run following art classes at the community centre, which are to increase to two mornings a week, Tuesday and Wednesday, from 10am to midday, from September 22, because of their increasing popularity.

A hot supper, quiz and ‘silly’ games night is being held at the community centre on Saturday, August 8, from 7.30pm, with cash prizes on offer.

To book a place at the games night or for details of the signing or art classes call Cllr Makepeace on 01565 734226.