Warm-hearted residents at one of Darlington’s extra care housing schemes have created a host of cosy gifts for stray dogs in the area.
Members of the knitting group at Dalkeith House have crafted a host of colourful blankets that have been donated to Dogs Trust Darlington, to help keep dogs at its rehoming centre in Sadberge warm.
Dalkeith House boasts 39 self-contained flats with access to communal facilities and on-site care team, and the knitting group is part of a packed programme of activities for residents which include coffee mornings, bingo, craft sessions, film screenings, dominos, cards and baking days.
Penny Ivison, Scheme Leader at Dalkeith House, explained:
“We have a small group of knitters who meet up every Wednesday afternoon and in the last two years we’ve donated around 30 blankets. We also keep old towels and duvets for them, as the charity can make good use of these too.
“The group is a great way for the members to get together and have a chat while they knit, and we were delighted to welcome Gordon Norrie, and Jonas the greyhound, recently to pick up our latest donation.”
Gordon Norrie, Supporter Relations Officer at the Dogs Trust Darlington added:
“Some of our more sensitive dogs will really benefit from these extra blankets, especially now the weather is colder. Without the generosity of groups such as the Dalkeith Knitters we couldn’t continue to look after and re-home over 1,000 dogs every year. Many thanks go to everyone who contributed.”
Members of the knitting group include Gwen Ryley, Pat Sewell, Sybel Thompson, Margaret Scott and Barbara Haggett.
For more information about Dalkeith House and Darlington Borough Council’s other extra care housing schemes log onto the website at www.darlington.gov.uk/health-and-social-care/adult-social-care/a-place-to-live/extra-care