A HAMPSHIRE knitting group are making and donating jumpers, teddies and hats to Afghan refugees fleeing their county with little or no personal possessions.

The Knit and Natter Friendship Group, at the Velmore Community Centre based in Falkland Road, Chandlers Ford, had many items of clothing and toys they have been making over lockdown.

After seeing the refugees arriving from Afghanistan with little or no personal possessions or clothes, especially the young children, they decided they could help by donating some of their knitted clothes and toys.

The group, made up of 10 members, are making jumpers, cardigans, teddies, soft toys, hats and leg warmers to donate to those fleeing their country.

The team has links with 1 Community in Eastleigh who are co coordinating the distribution of donated items.

A spokesperson from Knit and Natter said: "After seeing the refugees arrive with little or no possessions and the colder weather soon to arrive, the need for some warm clothes was important.

"It is important for communities to help each other when there is an urgent need, with small gestures making a big difference."

The group, who have been running for around 10 years, are currently accepting donations of wool and craft supplies should anyone wish to help.

As well as this, they are hosting a Macmillan Coffee Morning on September 24 where items will be for sale in a bid to raise funds.

The Knit and Natter Friendship Group is hosted on Tuesday from 2pm to 4pm.

The Velmore Community Centre is based in Falkland Road, comprising of a number of rooms available for hire by businesses, community groups and local residents.

As well as the Knit and Natter group, they also host Table Tennis, Mother and Toddler, and will soon be reopening their Quiz Nights and Dementia Afternoons.

The Cherry Tree Café is open every morning for light refreshments.