Big Knit bottles now on sale in Manchester helping to raise money for Age UK Manchester

Next time you pop to the supermarket keep an eye out for innocent's limited edition be-hatted bottles, on sale throughout November as part of the Big Knit campaign, now in its 16^th year. Each of the special bottles carries a 25p donation to Age UK to help the Charity continue to be there for older people in Manchester who have no one else to turn to.

Over the past year the people of Manchester have been knitting and purling like never before for the latest Big Knit campaign. Local knitters created over 1,300 miniature hats to contribute towards the national total of 1.5 million created across the country.

Ray Gridley, Chief Executive of Age UK Manchester said: “We’re so pleased with how much support the Big Knit has received over the years – we look forward to seeing the latest hat creations our devoted knitters in Manchester make for us each year and we’re excited to see them on sale!

“We want to thank everyone who has knitted a hat or bought a Big Knit smoothie to support the Big Knit. The campaign helps us to make a difference to the lives of older people in Manchester. Money raised from the be-hatted bottles will help to fund essential services that tackle loneliness and isolation and bring older people together in their communities, such as Ageing Well groups and sessions, which give older people the chance to come along and make friends, learn new skills and most importantly have fun.”

Emilie Stephenson, Head of Brand at innocent drinks, said: “Every year we’re overwhelmed by the number of hats which come through our doors and it’s brilliant to see the unique hats that are sent our way.

“We would love to thank everyone in Manchester who supports the Big Knit from the knitters to smoothie drinkers. It’s great to take a moment and truly celebrate the intricacy and creativity of the hats. A hats off to all the knitters.”

For more information about Age UK Manchester’s services or how to get involved with next year’s Big Knit visit https://www.ageuk.org.uk/manchester/about-us/news/articles/2018/the-big-knit-2018/ or call 0161 437 0717.