A KEEN group of Dorchester knitters are helping provide some winter warmth.

The Sandringham Court Knit and Natter group, which has been running for two years, is a small group of pensioners who meet twice a week and mostly knits for charity.

The group was recently named Volunteer Group of the Year by the Volunteer Centre Dorset.

One of its latest charity efforts has seen the group knotting twiddle muffs and blankets for the past year.

The idea came from the Knit and Natter Facebook page, having been pioneered by NHS Warrington.

Sheila Burton from the group said: “These muffs and lap blankets are used by people suffering with dementia, who like to feel the different textures and the buttons, bells, beads and ribbon that is attached to them.

“For safety reasons everything has to be sewn on very securely and a felt pocket is often added for a photograph, as was suggested by one of the care homes.”

The Dorset Volunteer Centre helped with the effort to share the pattern with local knitters and other groups have donated their efforts.

Sheila said: “So far 25 twiddle muffs and 14 blankets have been given out by the group to care homes, day centres and individuals, but we would like to reach more care homes.

“We have received very positive feedback about how the patients react to them.”

She added: “Some wool and attachments have been donated and we knit other items for small craft sales to make some money to replenish stocks.

“We ask for a small donation, but it is not obligatory.”

Sheila said the group would be willing to take donations to anyone.

Those interested are asked to call 01305 268381.

It meets twice a week in Sandringham Court’s communal hall, with anyone interested in getting involved welcome to come along.

There is no charge and there are tea and biscuits available and there is also a raffle.