Residents at a Barrhead care home are knitting together to give something back to their community.

Every Friday, those living at The Firs nursing home, in Lowndes Street, gather to make hats and blankets for premature babies.

Staff now plan to get in touch with the Royal Alexandra Hospital, in Paisley, so the newly-knitted goods can be donated to the maternity unit there.

Colette Gallacher, who is activities co-ordinator at The Firs and runs the knitting group, told the Barrhead News: “I went round all of the residents individually and found out what meaningful activities could benefit them and what they actually enjoy doing.

“The majority of the ladies decided on knitting or crocheting, so I thought ‘why not get a wee group of them together one afternoon a week and we’ll just sit and knit?’ “One of the residents then came up with a great idea of doing baby blankets and wee hats for premature babies.”

Barrhead News: A love of knitting has brought people togetherA love of knitting has brought people together

Taking part in the group also gives residents the chance to get more involved with the community, after so much time spent in lockdown during the coronavirus pandemic.

One member, Jean Morrison, said: “I’m really enjoying it. I’m going to learn to crochet, as it’s one thing I’ve always wanted to do.

“I’m trying to do booties for the babies that will keep them warm for the winter and it would be nice to see photos of them on. I’ve even been knitting outside the club as well, in my room.”

Colette has also noticed the difference taking part in the club has made for its members, who enjoy being creative and spending time with each other to share a good yarn.

She hopes more residents will get involved over the coming weeks.

“You can put them into a lounge and they are that used to sitting together that they don’t really talk but, if you bring them together and their hands are busy, the conversation flows,” said Colette.

“It’s fun and it keeps them stimulated. Some had put their knitting needles aside because of various health conditions but now they’re picking them up again. I’m so proud of their achievements.”

Staff would be happy to hear from anyone who would like to donate wool or other knitting materials for the new club.

If you can help, call 0141 881 1278.