NIMBLE-FINGERED members of a friendship group have been getting busy with their knitting needles to help new mums bond with their newborns.

The craft club at the North Road-based St Helens and Warrington Oddfellows have knitted crocheting squares and baby clothes, as well as woolly breasts and nappies for the Special Care Baby Unit at Whiston Hospital.

Known as ‘bonding squares’, neonatal units encourage new mothers to use them to help bond with their baby by smell, especially in cases where they can’t physically have contact.

Each mum and baby is given a square to keep close to their skin, which are then swapped every 12 hours.

“I heard about the project for knitted squares on Facebook, and although our local maternity hospital hadn’t requested any, they knew about the project and were delighted to receive 156 squares,” said Barbara Grundy who helps to organise the Oddfellows’ crafty gatherings.

Used as teaching props for trainee midwives and new mums, the woolly contributions will save the Unit from buying more expensive plastic models.

“We’re a furious bunch of knitters so I asked the Matron if we could help out with anything else for the Unit.

"When she asked for knitted breasts and nappies with different coloured poo we initially thought it was a joke but were more than happy to oblige," added Barbara.

“I hope having the knitted breasts will add a bit of humour too. We’ve certainly had a good giggle at our monthly craft sessions making them.”

Catherine Hargreaves, ward manager at Whiston's Special Care Baby Unit added: “We would like to thank Barbara and friends at the Oddfellows for their kind contributions – your generosity is greatly appreciated.”

The Oddfellows' sessions take place every second Monday of the month at 17 North Rd and are open to everyone to brush up their skills in good company. with tea, biscuits and treats on offer for £2.

To find out more call Julie on 01744 895 536 or email julie.webster@oddfellows.co.uk.

Search 'St Helens & Warrington Oddfellows' on Facebook.