A KIND HEARTED crafter has made those on Bradford Royal Infirmary’s elderly care wards smile with a comforting donation.

In a bid to keep busy during lockdown, crochet lover Jo Aspinall has been making eye-catching, multi-coloured blankets. Three of her lovely creations have now been donated to the hospital for the use of patients on elderly care wards.

Nurses described feeling "delighted" by the donation.

Jo, a day nursery manager, who lives in Thackley, said: “I’ve always loved crochet and taught myself as a teenager. During lockdown I wanted something to do so crocheting blankets was the answer. It kept me really busy and the blankets kept piling up so I started thinking about what to do with them."

“I saw an article in a magazine where a London hospital was appealing for blankets for their neonatal unit and that gave me an idea.”

Jo approached her friend Florence Chrishimba, the trust’s medical HR Advisor, who in turn got in touch with the hospital’s own Bradford Hospitals’ Charity.

Jo added: "I was really pleased to be able to donate them to BRI. I originally intended them for the hospital’s neonatal unit but the patterns turned out to be unsuitable for tiny fingers. However, when I was told that they would be perfect for elderly care patients, I was so happy. I really hope the patients will enjoy them.”

Roshanne Fox, lead nurse for Dementia, said: “I am thrilled to get these blankets from Jo; they are always very well received by the staff and patients. They provide such comfort to people and this is lovely to see, especially in these difficult times.

“These blankets will be given to three patients in our care, who can then take them home and use them afterwards.

“If you are a handy knitter or able to crochet, we are always in need of and grateful for woolly hats, twiddle muffs, knee blankets and so on as our supply is always being used.”

Charity Fund-raising Assistant, Elaine Drake said: “Here at Bradford Hospitals’ Charity we are always thrilled when people like Jo choose to support us in this way.

“The blankets were beautifully crocheted with wonderful bright colours and patterns and they have been very well received. Thank you for your kind consideration Jo, this is a great way to support our charity.

“If you or someone you know enjoys knitting and crocheting please do not hesitate to contact us by email: charity@bthft.nhs.uk or ring 01274 274809.”