AGE UK Bradford District is calling on knitters and crocheters to help raise funds for older people in need.

The Innocent Big Knit campaign has returned for the 18th year, run in partnership between Age UK and Innocent Drinks, and is calling on people to craft some small hats to fit on top of Innocent smoothie bottles.

For each hatted smoothie sold, Age UK receives 25p, which the charity says will help "make a big difference" to the lives of older people.

Mark Rounding, Chief Executive Officer at Age UK Bradford District, said: “We need the people of the Bradford district to join us and help knit as many miniature hats as possible, to help us hit our 5,000 target.

"It’s been a challenging time for everyone, but this is a really fun campaign to get involved in and it’s a great activity to do whilst we’re all spending more time at home.

“The money raised from these little hats will make a big difference to the lives of older people in our area, many of whom have been badly affected by the pandemic.

"Every hat knitted will help to fund our hugely important work providing information, help and support, advice and a wide range of activities for older people in communities across the Bradford district, helping them to feel less lonely, stay active and become more connected and financially secure.”

Katie Simpson, Head of Brand at Innocent Drinks, said: "We’re delighted to be working with Age UK on the Big Knit once again. After a hard year, we want to make this campaign as big as possible so we can help more older people than ever. We’re incredibly grateful to all the heroic volunteers helping us get there.”

For more information on The Big Knit contact Age UK Bradford District on 01274 391190, or visit www.ageuk.org.uk/bradforddistrict/get-involved/the-big-knit/.

Completed hats can be sent to Age UK Bradford District at 75 Wrose Road, Wrose, Shipley, Bradford, BD18 1HX.

There are six exciting new hat designs for this year, including a rainbow, a rabbit, a cupcake, a pom pom, a fox and bird. These knitting and crochet patterns are available to download, to find out more visit: www.ageuk.org.uk/bigknit or www.thebigknit.co.uk.