THE click clack of knitting needles has quietened down across parts of our constituency as volunteers take a break from producing blankets, scarves, and tiny cardigans for babies and toddlers, as part of an initiative known as Winter Warmers.
The project was the idea of Ramsey and Bury county councillor Adela Costello, who set it up two years ago in her former role as Huntingdonshire Community Champion. Word soon spread and donations of wool came pouring in as an enthusiastic group of up to 40 volunteers got busy not only knitting but crocheting, too. The project was supported by Women's Institute, U3A and the P3 charity.
Arrangements were made for items to be dropped off at various collection points including the library in Ramsey and Sawtry, from where Adela and other volunteers distributed them to those living on the streets and to food banks. "The response was such that we repeated it last year and were also able to donate items to care homes and children's organisations," said Adela. "Our volunteers were generous with their time and talent while others purchased wool to ensure we could keep going. During the pandemic it gave many of them a purpose while they were stuck at home, keeping themselves occupied while knowing they were supporting more vulnerable members of our community."
With Adela's blessing, Winter Warmers is now run by the county council's Think Communities team.
Photo: Cllr Adela Costello (right) with some of her Winter Warmers helpers
