If you've spotted some interesting banners appearing at locations around Maldon in the past few days, then the aim of a small and anonymous groups of 'craftivists' has been met – especially if you have stopped to see what the crafted posters are all about.

Led by a Maldon 15-year-old and her mum – who shall, of course, remain anonymous – the 15 residents from Maldon and Heybridge who were involved have been busy highlighting a World Wildlife Fund (WWF) campaign asking that on Saturday, 27 March, everyone switches off their lights for an hour.

The date is the night of 'Earth Hour' and the idea is, as the WWF website explains, to "put the spotlight on the planet, the issues we face and our place within it all."

The main focus of the event is to draw public attention to nature loss and climate change.

Maldon Nub News spoke to two members of the town's 'craftivism' group to find out more about what it is and its history.

"Craftivism is a gentle way of protesting," the young woman says, "it's combining crafting with activism to raise awareness of issues.

"It has a long history, with examples including some of the work of the sufragettes and the huge patchwork quilts made in America and here to highlight the number of people who have died from AIDS. There was another example where MPs were handed handkerchiefs embroidered with the words "don't blow it" to make them think about how to vote on an issue.

"I think it appeals to all as it doesn't matter what your ability is. It's a really gentle and very powerful way of getting a message across."

This young woman is not new to activism, however – she was one of the very first 'youth ambassadors' for the WWF and has written a number of articles for the organisation.

A Plume Academy student, she is hoping for a future where she will be able to make a difference to the future of the planet and the protection of the beautiful world around us.

Following the event, the banners will all be taken down on Sunday, 28 March, and – in line with the group's principles – re-used or re-purposed.

Some of the other members of the group had the following to say about getting involved with the local craftivism project:

• "I really enjoyed working with a lovely group as part of a shared purpose."
• "I value and appreciate the positive use of time during lockdown with the calmness and joy crafting brings."
• "I loved the secret aspect. Being part of a little secret society is a bit of a giggle."
• "I'd never done any embroidery before but really enjoyed making these little pieces, knowing that they were for a good reason. I've really enjoyed seeing people's reaction to them as 'lovely things'."

Maldon Craftivists now hope to use crafting to highlight other issues they decide on as a group.

As they have to remain anonymous, anyone wanting to join the group can do so by contacting Maldon Nub News, so that details can be passed on. Email: [email protected]

For more information about the WWF's Earth Hour event you can visit the charity's website using the link here.