Local knitters join forces to help unwell or small babies

The tiny clothes are given to neonatal units across the Midlands.

A local knitting group are creating handmade items to donate to neonatal units across the Midlands to help keep premature babies warm.

The Knit and Natter group at Newmarket in Coalville, have been inspired by a local charity to put their needlework to good use.

Cosy Clothes for Tiny Miracles is a small voluntary group based in Nuneaton, their volunteers make knitted and crocheted goods for unwell or small babies.

Diane Ingram, founder of Cosy Clothes for Tiny Miracles, said: “Our support is vital to help keep tiny babies warm and we work with our contacts at each hospital to supply according to their needs and respond to any appeals they put out.

“We currently donate around 6,000 items per year and have 50 or so ladies that knit and crochet for us and are always looking for more volunteers to join us.

“Having had premature twins in the family, it is a cause close to my heart. I’m always very touched by the support we get, including the kind donation from the ladies in the Knit and Natter group.”

The Knit and Natter group has been making blankets, bonding squares, hats, mittens, boots and cardigans as well as crocheting octopuses as the tentacles provide a resemblance to umbilical cords giving comfort to babies in incubators.

The handmade items are donated to the neonatal units at the Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester General Hospital and University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire.

The group meets at Newmarket in Coalville, which is owned by North West Leicestershire District Council (NWLDC), every second and fourth Thursday of the month from 10 am until 12 pm. 

Therese Willoughby, speaking on behalf of the Knit and Natter group, said: “We are a friendly group of knitting and crocheting enthusiasts that welcomes anyone of any ability.

“Members can come along, work on their own projects or share ideas about other local initiatives, which is how we came to support Cosy Clothes for Tiny Miracles.

“We’re always looking for new members so if you like knitting and crocheting, bring your yarn and needles and come and join in.”