Norfolk churches host Knitters and Stitchers

Venues all over the county, many of them churches, are resounding to the sound of clicking needles, as Norfolk Knitters and Stitchers indulge in their hobby, reaching out to the lonely and helping dozens of charities. Tony Rothe reports.

Started by Linda Brown (pictured below) in 2008 with a handful of people knitting for charity, the group has grown out of all recognition, driven by the enthusiasm of its volunteers in running and organising groups, and in working tirelessly for projects that benefit those in need.

The growing number of Knit and Natter groups provide a chance for people to get together, see what other people are knitting, share patterns and enjoy each other’s company while having a chat over a cuppa. There are now over 55 groups spread all over the county.

“Loneliness can be a problem for many people but if you enjoy knitting, crocheting or stitching, then Norfolk Knitters and Stitchers may be just what you are looking for” said Elly Reynolds, PR secretary.

“Members knit as much or as little as they like but everything they knit goes to help someone, somewhere. And members frequently say how much their lives have benefited from the activities. They enjoy using existing skills and learning new ones, they meet old friends and make new ones, and above all feel a real sense of purpose in doing something they enjoy which is also really useful.”

A number of Christian charities are supported, with at least 50 sacks of knitting sent to International Aid Trust every month, and loads of knitted goods going to the Samaritans Purse Shoebox appeal, and the seafarers charity Apostleship of the Sea.

Further sacks go to a whole range of local charities, including the premature baby unit at the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital, the Hedgehog Rescue Appeal, the Dogs Trust at Snetterton and the Haven Refuge for Women and Children escaping Domestic Violence. Some of the knitted craft items go for sale in aid of other charities including Norfolk Hospice, Big C, Age Concern and Arthritis UK.

knitters wool 390

Norfolk Knitters and Stitchers are part of Community Service Volunteers and currently have a grant from Norfolk Community Foundation which enables the renting of rooms to store wool, knitting and sewing. The Wool Loft (pictured) and Sewing Attic are at the Christ Church Centre on Magdalen Road in Norwich. These rooms are open once at month for members to come along for wool, material, patterns, needles and learn about the latest projects. The grant also helps towards the cost of a four-monthly newsletter which goes out to all members.

The Norfolk Knitters and Stitchers will be holding their Grand Exhibition in the Memorial Hall in Dereham on Saturday October 4 from 10.00am to 5.00pm, with free admission. Enjoy the Mad Hatter's Tea Party with activities for adults and children - you can even learn 'How to Knit'!

knitters logo 349

Visit www.norfolkknitters.org.uk for more information. There are patterns that can be downloaded as well as a list of all the groups and a diary showing which groups are meeting each day.

Or contact Edna on 01603 811814 or email norfolkknitters08@gmail.com.

Main picture : Action Team members preparing for the 2013 Winter Event.