A month of knits to remember

Stitched up: Pat Belton, Rene Bailey and Jeanette Jones get into the spirit of the Torquay Beanie Festival. Stitched up: Pat Belton, Rene Bailey and Jeanette Jones get into the spirit of the Torquay Beanie Festival.

By Cherie Donnellan
HAVING a yarn takes on new meaning in Torquay’s Beanie Festival this month.
Organiser Jan Hale said the festival emerged from discussions among members of her knitting group.
“We used to knit beanies, jumpers and scarves for people in need.”
Torquay Uniting Church members started the festival in 2009 amid growing interest in their knitting group.
Ms Hale said the festival would feature lots of knitting displays and workshops throughout May.
“There are displays at the church and in shops around Torquay.
“We even have a knitted jumper of the Mona Lisa on display.”
Ms Hale said Spotlight’s sponsorship of the festival had helped the festival grow.
“There are prizes awarded for creative knitting. We also welcome knitted donations to give to those who need winter warmth.”