Fermanagh and Omagh District Council has launched a ‘Winter Wooly’ rally with hats, scarves and gloves to be donated to elderly people in the community this winter.
The council is encouraging locals across the district to pick up their knitting needles in order to help those who may be feeling isolated or lonely in the colder months.
A prize will be awarded to the most cheerful Winter Wooly entered, while all entries will be donated to an older person living in Fermanagh and Omagh.
Council chair Errol Thompson said the initiative was a ‘wonderful idea’ and encouraged local residents to take part in the rally.
“This is a wonderful idea and I would encourage those who embrace knitting or crocheting as a pastime or indeed those who used to knit but haven’t done so in a while to dust of the knitting needles and get clicking,” Cllr Thompson said.
“Keeping warm in winter can be difficult for many, particularly those who are more affected by the plummeting temperatures, such as our beloved older population.
“Many of our family, friends and neighbours have restricted their movements for a considerable length of time, and the thought of winter’s shorter days and chilly nights is daunting for many.
Not only will participants be engaging in an excellent pastime, but they will also be helping those in most need to keep warm this winter.”
The project is being run alongside the South West Age Partnership, while purchased items can also be donated in addition to handmade ones.
“As well as a gift of winter woollies, handwritten notes of encouragement and information regarding local support service will be included with each gift,” a council spokesperson said.
“If you can’t knit or crochet, do not despair. You can still donate an item to improve and brighten an older person’s winter, you can send a hat, scarf or pair of gloves.”
