Ross-on-Wye group, Knit and Natter, have joined forces with local charity, Hug a Baby, to help new mother’s in South Africa who are struggling in the face of poverty. Putting their skills to work, the Smallbrook Garden based knitters are crafting clothes for newborn babies who would otherwise be wrapped in nothing but newspaper.

From socks and booties, to hats, scarves and jumpers, the items make up gift bags for families abroad.

In 2006, Fran Heather, who moved to South Africa in 2004, read about these types of experiences and immediately started to knit outfits for newborns. Now, her will to help has become a registered charity, Hug a Baby, which Knit and Natter have teamed with.

Hug a Baby volunteer, Jenny Chapman, visited the knitting ladies on Monday, June 10th, and collected some of the items ready to be sent to South Africa.

Hug a Baby now provides over 3000 gift bags of such items a year and works with three hospitals.See this week’s paper for more stories like this, available in shops and as a Digital Edition now.