Hi Sean, no idea about groups here in Cornwall, i've never thought about looking for one!
My advice for starting out is pretty much the same as Cherie, find a pattern you would really like to do, but don't pick anything too difficult to start with, you'll be supprised at how stunning some of the easy patterns are once cut, doing an easy pattern first gives you a quick result and the practise you will need for the more complex patterns, and don't be afraid to experiment!
best of luck
Ian
