The Royal Borough’s library Knit and Natter groups have created more than 50 knitted chicks to support a fundraiser for the Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice Service.
The Maidenhead and Windsor groups have been taking part in The Big Chick Knit where, each year, knitters from the area make hundreds of adorable knitted chicks, each with a chocolate egg inside. The chicks, as well as several knitted rabbits, are then sold to raise vital funds for hospice, which is near Maidenhead.
The knitters have created chicks in range of colours and styles, which will be on sale through Alexander Devine to support its appeal from this Friday.
The chicks were collected today (Wednesday 28 February) by staff from the hospice.
Councillor Joshua Reynolds, Cabinet Member for communities and leisure, said: “I’d like to thank the Knit and Natter groups for their efforts in creating these knitted chicks for such a worthy local cause. Their creations look fantastic and I’m sure will be appreciated by the hospice. I’d encourage our residents to support the fundraiser – these knitted chicks will make wonderful gifts for loved ones this Easter.
“Our libraries are fantastic community hubs, and much more than just books. On this occasion our Knit and Natter groups, which meet weekly, have joined together to support this charity initiative, and they’re just one of the many groups and events hosted by our library service. We also host job fairs, story times for children, IT support sessions, board games, a Lego group and a pop-up poetry group, so there really is something for everyone. If you haven’t done so, do take the time to see what’s on offer.”
Jazmin Parker, Community and Events Fundraiser at Alexander Devine Children’s Hospice Service, said: “We are overwhelmed by the support of our local community. We are so grateful for the generosity of our magnificent volunteer knitters who have worked tirelessly to create thousands of adorable, knitted chicks and bunnies to help us raise vital funds. Thank you to every single person who has knitted for us or donated chocolate eggs to our Big Chick Knit Appeal.
“For just £3 they are the perfect treat for you or a loved one and every penny raised helps fund vital care and brings joy and fun to children and their siblings, along with helping families make precious memories. You can purchase your unique chick and friends on our website www.alexanderdevine.org/chicks.”
If you love to knit or crochet, or maybe you are just a beginner, Knit and Natter provides an opportunity to get together informally with like-minded people, have a good chat and do some knitting at the same time.
The groups meet once a week at libraries across the borough. There’s no need to book, just drop in. For full details, visit https://www.rbwm.gov.uk/home/leisure-and-culture/libraries/library-events