A BIG Blanket Campaign has been launched at the indoor craft and produce market in Ringwood.

Organiser Sylvia Gray says the idea is to raise money and blankets for any small local charity or good cause without any cost involved.

The market is appealing for knitters willing to make squares or donate wool or knitting needles. These squares will then be joined to make blankets of various sizes from dolls blankets to adult knee covers.

Any special blankets with patterned squares will be sold and the profits divided between charities.

Mrs Gray said: “We need knitters to bring their squares to the market on Tuesday mornings and wool will be available to collect for people to use.

“The Fabric Shop in Ringwood is also willing to act as a donation point and we are very grateful for their help.

“Charities, especially small local causes, are finding fundraising very difficult and this is a way of helping without money being involved.

“We will also accept buttons, cottons and knitting needles in good condition.

“Anyone who can knit well and wishes to make a baby blanket or a throw we would love to hear from as not every cover has to be made of squares.”

The market is open at Greyfriars on Tuesdays from 10am until 12.30pm and sells cakes, local meat, jams, cheese, children’s clothes, toys, cards and jewellery with stalls that change every week.

Mrs Gray added: “The Ringwood Library Knit and Knatter group have started the campaign by making and donating a double bed patchwork blanket. Their continued support is much appreciated.”

Charities can have a stall at the market free and members of the public can have a stall for £7.

For further details contact Mrs Gray on 01725 517427.