Knitted hearts were a comfort

A FUNERAL firm has paid tribute to a group of local knitters for making and donating hearts for families during lockdown.

In what started as a gesture by members of Dalgety Parish Church, growing numbers have been knitting pairs of matching hearts for those who were unable to view their loved one prior to the funeral.

One is placed in the coffin and the other given to the family to keep.

The generosity has now extended into the wider community, with about 100 hearts now handed in across all four of the firm’s funeral homes in Kirkcaldy, Glenrothes, Dalgety Bay and Rosyth.

Sheila Matthew, managing director at Crosbie Matthew said: “To lose a loved one is challenging, but particularly so at this time with restrictions on the format and size of funeral services.

“With funerals initially limited to immediate family, we observed kindness and compassion on a new level, with neighbours, friends and colleagues lining the streets to acknowledge the funeral cortege, compassion echoed by those who have taken the time to knit and donate the hearts, a gesture which means so much to the families in our care.”

Freda Anderson was one of those who got involved donating hearts she had knitted.

The 80-year-old from Kirkcaldy said: “I saw a social media post about Dalgety Bay’s parishioners knitting the hearts and wanted to help.

“I’ve reached a good age and am still healthy so I’m grateful for that but felt so sad for those who couldn’t say goodbye to their loved ones. It’s been a real joy and privilege to help.”

With the gradual easing of restrictions, the rules affecting funerals are changing. All four of Crosbie Matthew’s premises in Fife are now open, with limousines back in use.

Funerals can be organised by phone, video conference or in person, observing social distancing.

Families can also now have up to 20 people present at cremations and burials and the crematoria are offering live streaming, available to watch live or up to 28 days after the service. Gardens of Remembrance have also re-opened.

For the latest information and advice, visit crosbiematthew.co.uk or telephone 01592 640644.

Sheila Matthew says the knitted hearts have helped a lot of families.