Knitting and crocheting across the generations

Knitting and crocheting across the generations for the Big Knit-a-thon. On Saturday 10th May 2025, Age UK Surrey brought together older and younger generations to create little hats with poppies and pom poms in celebration of Surrey Day and the 80th Anniversary of VE Day.

Students from Prior’s Field School, Alton College and Godalming College, local care home residents, scouts and knitting groups from all over Surrey came together to chat and create. All the hats created on the day helped raise money for Age UK Surrey as part of the Age UK Big Knit campaign.

Age UK and innocent have teamed up to inspire the nation's crafters to knit little hats for innocent smoothie bottles. The campaign has raised an incredible £3.2 million for Age UK since it began in 2003.

Age UK Surrey receives 30p from every hat they send into the campaign which goes towards supporting the older people in our community by providing much needed services and activities. Little hats from this year’s campaign will hit the shelves in October 2025.

Diana Bignell, Head of Marketing and Development, Age UK Surrey, said: “Through the Big Knit campaign, we can bring communities together, both younger and older generations. Learning a new skill is proven to boost brain power and help with memory, which is important in both the young and old. This knit-a-thon has inspired both groups not only to do something for themselves but to come together and support each other. It's especially poignant on a day like today when we come together on Surrey Day to celebrate our community and remember the 80th Anniversary of VE Day”.

Volunteers from Age UK Surrey were on hand to teach beginners how to knit and crochet simple little hats by following patterns that were provided, while the experts created more intricate hats from crocheted unicorns to Mr and Miss Men and minions. A display of ‘Big Knit’ hats featured mini fruit and animals of all kinds.

“It’s been great learning how to crochet, and nice to take my mind off exams for the day! It’s a skill I can use in my A Level textile work” said Ellie Haines of Prior’s Field School.

Knitting groups, knitting and crochet enthusiasts are all encouraged to take part in the Big Knit and knit as many little hats to help make a big difference!