WHO isn't uplifted when they see one of Northwich's wonderful crocheted post box toppers?

Now the work of those responsible for them is being ‘officially’ recognised.

Toppers of Northwich have been ‘yarn bombing’ the town for several years, bringing cheer and creating a fun and quirky atmosphere at events such as the Piña Colada festival, the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, and even Remembrance Sunday.

With 120 members meeting both in person and online, with ages ranging from 17 to well over 80, the groups help to bring the generations together, ensuring these important skills are passed on and preserved.

Up to now, their wonderful work has been largely self-funded, but this month, Northwich Town Council rewarded them for their valuable work with a grant of £500.

Northwich Guardian: Just some of the creations of Northwich's fantastic 'yarn bombers'Just some of the creations of Northwich's fantastic 'yarn bombers' (Image: Katie Naylor Brown)

Toppers founder members, Katie Naylor Brown, explained what the grant means to the group, and how they plan to spend the money.

She said: “We’re chuffed about it. It was such a reassurance that our work is appreciated, and that we can carry on doing what we love to do.

“It was lovely for the ladies because it's a reflection on all their hard work that the town council are supporting it, and want to see more.

“We’re thinking about buying ourselves a circular knitting machine. At the moment, it takes about two hours to make a bollard cover, but one of these machines can do it in just 10 minutes. It'll really up our game. 

“It'll mean as a group, the impact we can have could triple. Last year, we did one zone with pineapples for the Piña Colada Festival, but now we can do something for each area.

“We’ve tended to run a Gofundme for each project, and ask people, if they like our work, will they donate the cost of a ball of yarn, which is £3.

“That’s all great, but it’s a bit hand-to-mouth. This money will free us up a bit."

The group do more than just post box toppers. Members have already started knitting and crocheting for the Great Northwich Pokemon Hunt, which starts on Friday, March 31, and they are actively looking for more volunteers to get involved.

They also made a fantastic contribution to Northwich in Bloom’s ‘Gold’ award, making beautiful crochet flowers and toppers for bollards, leading to an additional award for ‘Best Art in the Community’.

Katie added: “The reaction we get from the town is really lovely.

"I like to go and get a cup of coffee and sit near one of the works. I don’t say I was involved, but I like to hear the comments.

"People say how lovely they are, and how they feel uplifted by them.”  

The groups meet every Monday, 7pm to 9pm, at the Old School House on Manchester Road, and Thursdays, 1pm to 4pm at Shurlach Methodist Church, in Shipbrook Road, Rudheath.

New members are always welcome, and there is also an option to participate online.