The knitivity – church display sew impressive in carrying out the wool of God

YARN bombers have brought festive cheer to the village of Pennington with the creation of a woolly Christmas tree and nativity scene.

More than 50 volunteers have come together to produce more than 300 knitted and crocheted squares which were pieced together to create a seven-metre tree plus a stable scene outside St Mark’s Church.

Vicar the Rev. Rachel Noël, who organised the creative installation, has crocheted the nativity characters, complete with face masks.

Children from all the neighbourhood’s schools, preschools and nurseries got in on the act, decorating recycled estate agent boards to create an advent calendar to add to the display.

Daily video stories told by representatives of the community will be posted online as each door is opened.

“I wanted to find a way of connecting the community,” said the Rev. Rachel. “I knew I needed a crochet project this season to help with my own mental health during this pandemic and decided to open it up to everyone to be a part of.

“Usually, we’d work together to create a large community Christmas fair, but obviously that’s not possible this year.

“My hope is that this has helped create opportunities for glimpses of light, hope and the joy of God this season. We have come together as a village and we should feel proud of what we have collectively achieved.”

Knitter Amanda Hopwood, manager of Oakhaven Hospice craft shop, said the project had given her a sense of purpose while on furlough.

“It feels great to be part of such a lovely community,” she said.

After Christmas, the squares will be used again to make blankets for those in need.