Those wanting to spin a yarn in St Mellons should look no further than the Communities First-run ‘Knit and Natter’ group, which meets every Thursday between 5pm and 7pm at the local library.
The group was set up in the summer of 2009 as a way of bringing the young and the young at heart together.
Since 2009, membership has continued to grow with people of various ages taking part, from six to 90-years-old. The group is open to people of all ages and abilities.
To celebrate the group’s first birthday a special celebration will take place on Thursday July 29. As part of the celebrations Cardiff’s very own Stan Stennett will unveil a special wall hanging at St Mellons library which has been made by the group.
The wall hanging has been created by the group with the help of contemporary textile artist Su Worlock. The hanging has been designed and made to depict the history of St Mellons, with each member creating something to add to the wall hanging.
Executive Member for Communities, Housing and Social Justice, Cllr Judith Woodman, said: “The Knit and Natter group is a great initiative and shows how Communities First is helping to bring communities together.
“The project is truly uniting the community and is helping to teach people new skills. I am delighted the first year has gone so well for the group and hopefully there will be many more milestone birthdays to celebrate.”
St Mellons Communties First development officer Rhian Anderson, who helped establish the group said: “The group became an instant hit and it’s fantastic to see all ages getting involved with the project. Not only is the group a fantastic way for the community to get together but the group has made a great contriubution to charity, knitting squares to make blankets and also little chicks for Velindre Hospital.”
One St Mellons resident who has benefited from joining the group is Eira March. Eira, 70, has lived in St Mellons for 26 years and decided to join the group to make new friends and be part of the community.
Eira says: “My husband died two years ago and I spent many years caring for him and became quite isolated. Since joining the group I have become more involved with the community and am very grateful for the company and the friends I have made.
“I have also enjoyed teaching the children how to knit as I feel it’s very important to pass on such skills.”
