KIND-HEARTED members of a Clydebank knitting group have spent time creating “trauma teddies” to donate to children needing comfort during difficult times.

Knit and Natter, based in Awestruck Academy, handed over their admirable creations to Police Scotland last week during a small presentation.

Trauma teddies were launched earlier this year and are kept in police cars to be given to small children who come into contact with the police through traumatic or upsetting circumstances.

The scheme involves members of the public knitting and donating teddy bears.

And founder of Knit and Natter, Margaret Reid, thought it would be perfect for the group’s first charity project.

She set up the group in April after attending several similar over the years.

Margaret said: “I like being in the company of other knitters, there’s always more to learn and the natter is just as important.

“It’s a good way to bring folk together and ease isolation.

“We have handed 15 teddies over this week which will be distributed where they are needed in our local branches of police stations.

“We plan to continue making them as and when supplies are needed as it brings us comfort knowing they will be making a positive impact for a child going through a traumatic time.”

The teddies were handed over to Sergeant Alistair Reid from Partick Police Station who met with the group.

The group are quickly forging links within the community through their knitting and have recently been approached by Co-op Funeralcare in Dalmuir to create poppies for donating to the Royal British Legion.

Knitters of all levels are encouraged to join the current members who are still learning new techniques from each other.

Margaret added: “I have been knitting since I was eight years old and have always avoided patterns that use circular needles, assuming it was too difficult.

“Carol recently showed me how to do this and I was chuffed to pick it up in next to no time.

“I love to be involved with other crafters, it’s lovely to be among creative like-minded folk and nurture each other’s talents.”

Knit and Natter meet in Awestruck Academy every Tuesday between 10am-2pm where anyone is welcome to join.