Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser
Pattern of success for Maggie’s
Creative crafters put their thinking caps on and found a new way to support cancer caring charity Maggie’s when its usual fundraising was impacted by the pandemic.
Four bespoke patterns for branded woolly hats have been designed – and dedicated knitters across Lanarkshire have been busy creating a colourful array of the beanies, which are now on sale in support of the charity’s base in Airdrie.
They can be purchased at the centre in the grounds of Monklands Hospital or by calling its fundraising team, and will also be on sale at the Maggie’s noel lunches taking place at Crossbasket Castle and Crutherland House hotels.
Maggie’s fundraising board member Anne Hamilton suggested the new fundraising idea, with the project being “inspired by so many of our centre visitors who took to knitting during lockdown; and by Tom Daley knitting his way through the Olympics!”
They enlisted the help of expert knitter Pat Strong, the owner of Drymen knit shop and studio Craic n
Yarn, who designed the patterns - and then volunteers across Lanarkshire, including members of the Scottish Women’s Institute, got to work to bring them to life.
She said: “Knit is about wrapping loved ones in warmth and love, so what better way to do that than to produce a few patterns which will help raise money for people affected by cancer and their loved ones?
“Maggie’s is a wonderful charity supporting people at a time when they need it most, so it was a pleasure for me to get involved in this innovative idea.”
Patterns can be downloaded for £10 with all proceeds going to the charity, while the finished hats are available for £15 by visiting the Airdrie centre or calling 01236 771 191.
Fundraising manager Heather Mcarthur said: “I’m sure these will be a very popular present for people this Christmas - the gift which genuinely keeps on giving.
“Knitting is often associated with mindfulness and provides a great form of relaxation; part of the Maggie’s support programme is to offer meditation, relaxation and mindfulness which can reduce anxiety and reduce stress. We’re really grateful to both Anne and Pat, as well as the many voluntary knitters, for their hard work and we look forward to seeing people wearing their hats with pride.”