Imaginative chick knits fuel Devon Freewheelers blood bikes

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A volunteer blood bikes’ call handler from Ivybridge has funded fuel for the Devon Freewheelers thanks to her clever crafts.

Catherine Parsons recently presented the Devon Freewheelers with £95 after knitting and selling more than 100 Easter chicks.

The funds raised will refuel one of the charity’s blood bikes three times, ensuring the service can continue to support the NHS and community for free.

Russell Roe, Devon Freewheelers CEO, said: “Catherine’s clever knits have funded three tanks of fuel which will help to keep one of the blood bikes on the road for several days.

“At this time of increased fuel prices, Catherine’s support is much appreciated.

“We are always in awe of the imaginative ways our supporters raise funds for the charity, and Catherine’s knitted chicks are no exception.

“I would like to thank Catherine and all our fundraisers for their support. Every penny they raise is ploughed back into operating the free service, supporting the NHS and community.”

Catherine Parsons raised funds for the Devon Freewheelers

Catherine, aged 58, who works in pastoral care at Ivybridge Community College, sold many of the chicks thanks to a display at True Designs Cards and Crafts, in Fore Street, Ivybridge

She is already busy with her next knitted project for the Devon blood bikes.

The mum-of-one has faced the festive season head-on and begun knitting stockings to sell in time for Christmas.

She hopes to have finished more than 100 before December and will donate the proceeds of the new knits to the Devon Freewheelers.

Catherine, who recently trained as a volunteer call handler for the charity – coordinating the blood bikers and drivers who transport and courier samples and medical provision wherever needed across the county – is also gearing up for Easter 2023, creating another batch of yellow knitted chicks.

She said: I have been knitting forever really. I have knitted scarves, hats and gloves but my family have got enough of them.

“Someone suggested making the chicks. I thought ‘they won’t sell’, but they did. I made 50 of them over the last summer holiday.

“I’m now making stockings for Christmas. I hope to knit 100 or more.”

She added: “I have always done crafty things since when my daughter was small. I used to make her dressing-up clothes. I get bored watching TV.  I knit because I can’t sit and do nothing.”

 

 

 

 

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