The blankets are sent all over Ireland.

Crocheting and knitting have made a serious comeback over the last few years as more of us click-clack away at our own scarves, sweaters, toys and blankets.

Some have even made it a social event – meeting regularly for a ‘knit and a natter’ (or a ‘stitch and bitch’) while they complete their latest piece.

Once such group meets at Cork Cancer Centre twice weekly to put their skills to good use, kindly crocheting bright and colourful blankets for cancer patients across Ireland.

Every Wednesday evening and Thursday morning, Blankets of Hope crochet the cosy blankets as well as toys, jumpers, scarves and ponchos.

New knitters are always welcome and newbies can expect plentiful tea, biscuits, great chats and a helping hand for any learning crocheters who come along.

The Cork chapter of Blankets of Hope was established in 2014 after its creator, the late, great Ann Dowley Spillane, was inspired by the Blankets of Hope campaign in America when she herself was receiving treatment for cancer.

To date, the group have supplied over 25,000 blankets to people in need all around the country, including Cork’s Oncology units and hospices at no cost to patients.

All you need to take part is your needles and a little free time. All the wool used is donated.

Blankets of Hope meet every Wednesday night for a ‘Knit and Natter’ at the Cork Cancer Centre on Lavitt’s Quay from 7:30 pm- 9:30 pm and on Thursday morning from 11am to 1pm.

Call or email the Cork Cancer Centre on 021 494 9090 or corkcancercarecentre@gmail.com for more info.