I haven't! I don't drive which is the other reason it sucks not being in a city...but actually the only stitching group I even know of is up in Newcastle so if she has pointers to more local ones I am all ears! A friend of mine just started a knit and natter over in Guisborough if that counts for anything.
Also if it turns out I already know your wife from cross stitch Instagram or something I swear to god...