A group of dedicated quilters from East Wittering have donated a collection of handmade quilts to help comfort sick and vulnerable children.

Members of the Wittering Quilters Group gifted the sentimental items to Project Linus UK – a charity that provides handmade blankets to children in hospitals and those experiencing trauma.

The quilts were collected by Gilly Haigh, the charity’s West Sussex representative, during the group’s monthly meeting – on Tuesday, March 3 – at Downview Hall.

In total, 16 quilts were prepared for the charity, with 13 completed in time for the presentation.

Gilly Haigh, from Project Linus UK, collected quilts originally made by the late Pamela Clark. They were resized for the charity by members of the Wittering Quilters Group. Photo: Hollie Robards / Iconic Media Group / HR26030309

placeholder image — Gilly Haigh, from Project Linus UK, collected quilts originally made by the late Pamela Clark. They were resized for the charity by members of the Wittering Quilters Group. Photo: Hollie Robards / Iconic Media Group / HR26030309

The quilts have a special story behind them.

Chairperson Christine Milner explained: “These quilts were originally started by Pamela Clark, who has passed away, and were found by her niece among the lady’s belongings.

"They were very large quilt tops (uncompleted quilts) and all made by hand sewing the pieces together. As these tops were too large for the Linus charity to take, we were approached to make them smaller and complete them in order for Linus to receive and distribute to their children and families.”

Pamela’s daughter, Lisa Puckett, attended the group’s March meeting to hand over the blankets.

Project Linus UK collected quilts originally made by the late Pamela Clark. Pamela's daughter Lisa Puckett is pictured here, left, alongside charity rep Gilly Haigh (centre) and Wittering Quilters Group chairperson Chris Milner (right). Photo: Hollie Robards / Iconic Media Group / HR26030309

Christine said the group was honoured to help ensure the quilts reached the children they were intended for.

“These quilts were made by hand by a lady who wanted them to go to Project Linus,” she explained. “Our group was asked to alter them to the correct size and finish them so they could be given to children and their families.”

Project Linus, originally founded in the United States, supports children who are sick, traumatised or in need of comfort. The quilts and blankets donated by volunteers are distributed through hospitals and community organisations.

“The children are thrilled to receive something cuddly just for themselves,” Christine said. “Sometimes their siblings get one too.”

Quilts are delivered to hospitals and other organisations where families need them most.

The Wittering Quilters Group, which meets twice a month, has been supporting charities for nearly three decades. Founded in May 1996, the group celebrates its 30th anniversary this year.

Over that time the group has raised more than £38,000 for local charities through fundraising events and community activities.

Their annual charity day will take place on May 16 at Downview Hall in East Wittering, featuring quilting classes, raffles, tombola stalls and refreshments. This year’s fundraising efforts will support St Wilfrid’s Hospice.

With more than 40 members, the group continues to combine creativity and community spirit to support people in need.

Christine added: “We, as quilters, love making these quilts for all sorts of charities, even for the elderly in homes locally.

"I am so pleased and proud of all our members and what they achieve with their work for local charities."