Hi Letty,
Can I suggest that you contact the Quilters Guild of the U.K. to ask about local groups... They keep a list which is available on their website too. I also know that the Beamish Museum in conjunction with the Quilters Guild often hosts quilting classes for young people and they would always welcome you to come and sit with them which should help to Make some new friends locally. I am not near you in the UK, I am in Suffolk, but I would always be happy to email, PM or have a quilty chat on the phone. PM me if you would like.
hugs
Caroline