A NEW way of getting people to enjoy church is knitting a successful pattern in Lymm.

Dozens of people attend Lymm Methodist Church, on Eagle Brow, once a fortnight for a new knitting group – Loving Hands.

Inspired by a similar story in Ellesmere Port, the members of the group knit everything from blankets to scarves and gloves to dolls.

And they help people from Lymm all the way to Honduras.

Sue Jackson, Methodist support worker, said: “People’s lives have been transformed by Loving Hands.

“One of our members, Robin, first came along with his wife Eileen.

“She duly gave him some needles and wool to knit a square, but he quickly moved on to lacy blankets and all sorts of things.

“Robin is well known as a choirmaster but found himself unable to conduct while awaiting hip replacement surgery, he was glad to put his hands to good use by knitting.

“When people arrive they have a rummage through the wool and needles and patterns we’ve got and then decide where the results of their efforts are going to go.

“We’ve done things for the Mission to Seafarers, and the Children of Honduras Trust, but we’ve also knitted lots of fingerless gloves for all the local ministers.

“If we know of anyone who has been bereaved or ill, or could do with a bit of comfort, the Lymm group make them a scarf.”

Methodist minister the Rev Jackie Bellfield is thrilled at the church’s development.

She added: “Knitting is one of those things that used to be very commonplace and every family had someone who could create that much-needed jumper or baby outfit.

“Then it went out of fashion as people bought ready-made items off the shelf but now it’s making a comeback, and Loving Hands is part of the revival.”

The group finishes its meetings with prayer and a devotional time.

It meets from 1pm every other Thursday with the next meeting on April 22. Anyone is welcome to attend, you don’t need to sign up first. And there will be a slice of cake and a cup of tea on offer too.