A good yarn over a pint

Have you heard of yarn bombing? You have now! A community-led project in a Suffolk town is enhancing the place for both residents and visitors. Oh, and it’s helping clinically extremely vulnerable people in the process

A crocheted post-box ‘cosy’ and a tree trunk decorated in yarn are just a couple of creations in a Suffolk town, as part of plans to enhance the town for the benefit of the local community and for visitors. Creative Leiston residents have been getting involved in a community-led ‘yarn bombing’ project, knitting and crocheting a huge variety of items which have been popping up across the town, including at Leiston Library, a post box, and the Coffee Link café within the East of England Co-op and at Leiston Surgery.

Many of the yarn-bombers are clinically extremely vulnerable and have been shielding during the pandemic and got involved in the project to improve their mental health. There are currently around 400 people involved in the project, which aims to help brighten the town and boost the local economy by attracting visitors and encouraging residents to shop locally.

The project builds upon town improvement work being carried out by East Suffolk Council with Leiston Town Council and Leiston Together. As part of this enhancement work, local businesses are also being encouraged to tidy up their shop fronts, damaged or missing signs are being replaced and community litter picks are being organised with partner organisations.

Jo Thain, East Suffolk Council’s Leiston Change Manager says: ‘This is an incredible project generated entirely by the local community and which has real potential to improve the mental wellbeing of those involved, and of local residents who can enjoy the artwork on display. In addition, the project is helping to enhance the appearance of the town and increase community pride. Everyone is welcome to get involved!’

A spokesperson from Leiston Town Council adds: ‘The Town Council are pleased to engage the community in such an activity which helps people recover from lockdown.’

Doris Long, a member of the group who created a knitted tray of drinks to go on display outside the Royal Standard pub said: ‘I got involved as I wanted to put a smile of people’s faces. I live alone and I just wanted to do something to make people feel happy.’

The yarn-bombers have been liaising directly with local businesses and seeking permission to put their work up in shop windows and outside premises. With support from the business community, work will be on display at the CoffeeLink café, Leiston Surgery, the Royal Standard, Coopers, Additions, and in many private gardens. More businesses are getting involved as the project progresses. The group have also been making bunting for display in the town centre, as part of the reopening of the high street.

Anyone wishing to get involved can join the ‘Leiston Community Arts & Crafts # 2’ Facebook group or contact Jo Thain on 01394 444654. Donations of wool are also welcome. Follow the group on Instagram at @creative_leiston