Talented trio's knitted gifts raise over £2,000

Jan called on her friends Hilary Salisbury and Lynda Smith to get their wool and needles out to help people in need the charity's expert end of life care and support after her knitting skills raised £500 during lockdown.

"The Hospice is such a special place and it relies so much on donations from the community," said Jan.

"Fundraising really gives me a buzz and I couldn't have done it without Lynda and Hilary they were brilliant. We made a great team and the ordered came flooding in.

"Thanks to Lynda, we were even able to raise a further £500 for the Hospice through Gift Aid."

Supporting the Hospice is nothing new to Jan who has been a been a volunteer for many years, giving up her time to meet and greet people on reception, helping to organise volunteers and on OrangeLine the charity's confidential telephone support line for people who are bereaved, isolated or lonely.

Jan discovered her love for knitting when her husband was diagnosed with prostate cancer and she needed to keep her mind and hands occupied while she was going through a difficult time.

With the festive season approaching the trio are back knitting again but this time they are working on some exciting new designs that will make perfect gifts for friends and family. 

"We've started knitting again on new designs and Christmas chocolate orange covers and we are ready to take orders so we can raise even more funds for the Hospice," said Jan.  

"I've met some wonderful people with some lovely stories. I cannot thank them enough for their support and generosity."

The knitted animals (includes a hand gel or toiletry) cost just £5. The chocolate orange covers cost £2 or £3 with a chocolate orange. If you would like to place an order, please email Jan at jan.col.smith@gmail.com