Search is setting up small knitting groups - so far there are five but more are in the pipeline.

We have very simple patterns for trauma teddies and premature baby clothes. Trauma teddies are either given to the shoebox appeal or to the emergency services to be given to children who have been involved in a house fire. Premature baby clothes are needed by maternity hospitals as it can be very difficult for new Mums to buy tiny clothes. Search can provide knitting needles and wool.

Some people bring along their own knitting and enjoy the sociable atmosphere.

At present the five groups meet:

• at Cornerstone on Tuesdays, 1.30pm - 3.30pm
• in Fenham (FAR) on Tuesdays, 1pm - 3pm
• in Benwell Hall Drive community room on Fridays, 1.30pm - 3.30pm
• in Condercum Court on Wednesdays , 10am - 12 noon
• in Holywell Close community room (off Barrack Road, Arthurs Hill) on Mondays 2pm - 4pm

Then about three times a year the groups get together for a sociable "teddy bears' picnic" where all the completed teddies and clothes can be shown off and handed over.

If you would like to join one of these groups or are interested in setting up your own group telephone Maggy at Search on 0191 273 7443