KNITTERS in the Romsey area are being urged by the town's MP Sandra Gidley to help save the lives of babies around the world at a 'Knitathon' on Friday afternoon (August 15).

There is also an invitation to church, youth and community groups to go along with their needles and balls of wool to the Romsey Abbey United Reformed Church's Parish Hall, Romsey from 1pm to 5pm.

Mrs Gidley launched an initiative with 'Save the Children' a couple of weeks ago in an attempt to save the lives of newborn babies by knitting them hats to keep their heads warm and preventing their temperatures from dropping.

Since then, Romsey has gone knitting mad and babies' hats have been pouring into her constituency office.

The MP said: "The large majority of child deaths are preventable and it's wonderful to know that local people are helping save a life for each hat that is knitted.

"We have been receiving bags of hats daily in the office and I expect the areas first 'Knitathon' to be a great success too!

"I encourage everyone to come along and give knitting a go! Rarely can any of us save another life by doing something so simple."

Further information can be obtained from Mrs Gidley's constituency office on 01794 511900.