Agency by William Gibson 
A plea has been made for people to knit together following another tragedy in the Channel.
Last Tuesday, 12 migrants including six children lost their lives when their boat sank.
This week, knitters based at Biddulph Methodist Church have appealed for more help to support women refugees in northern France.
The “Chronicle” has previously reported how knitters at the church stitch together crochet squares to make into blankets. Organisers then transport 100 of them to Calais twice a year.
The next trip is next month and more crafters are needed to contribute towards the blankets, which are destined for a refuge in Dunkirk.
Organiser Sue Millard, her husband Norman and fellow volunteers make the journey to France. She said people may feel helpless about what they can do in response to the latest loss of life on the small boats trying to cross the Channel.
She said: “I heard someone say, ‘I can’t bear to just sit there and watch television, I have to be doing something’. The best thing is to knit or crochet a few six-inch squares.
“We need 72 for a 6ft x 4ft blanket, any colour or stitch, many or few as they will be sewn together.”
She said offers of support came from much further away than Biddulph: “Contacts have been made on cruises, in cafes and through friends of friends. I receive parcels of squares from Lincolnshire, Yorkshire, Leicestershire as well as the Leek area and nearer home.”
She added that the process had also helped the crafters themselves: “Many ladies have said this has been their lifeline, especially during covid and winter evenings. It’s a very worthwhile activity which leads to a hugely positive delivery of 100 blankets twice a year to a women’s and children’s refuge near Dunkirk in northern France.”
The women and children come from Syria, Afghanistan, Eritrea, Bangladesh.
Said Mrs Millard: “Many have crossed the sea from Africa and have trekked as far as they can. They have escaped from bombing, destroyed homes, violence and repression. None of them want to be refugees or migrants and we feel that the gift of a colourful blanket, made with care and love can bring a little light into their lives.”
She said it was “heartbreaking” to see the women at the Dunkirk refuge.
“As well as taking over the blankets to keep them warm we also take wet wipes as they have no running water. It not only helps them to keep clean but helps them maintain their dignity as well.”
She said: “How desperate must you be to risk your life and that of your children in an overcrowded inflatable? All of them hoping for a safe new life in our country. What a dilemma and a human catastrophe.”
They will set off with the latest consignment on Monday, 28th October. Mrs Millard said wool and squares would be welcomed.
People can call her on 01782 512 905 or email suemowcop@gmail.com and she can collect people’s squares.
(Photos: Sue Millard).
