COLOURFUL quilts have been donated to Airedale Hospital's special care baby unit.

Volunteers from Gilstead Craft Club were taught how to quilt by Alison Hardwick, co-ordinator of the Airedale branch of Project Linus.

The voluntary project makes patchwork quilts and knitted blankets to provide some comfort for sick and traumatised babies, children and teenagers.

Maureen Baxter, a clerk in the medical records and bereavement departments at Airedale Hospital, is among the craft club members.

"I love going to the club and learning different things including how to quilt.

"Thanks to Alison's patience and dedication, we have made various quilts for the baby unit that fit in the incubators to keep the babies warm. And when mum and child return home they take the quilt with them," she said.

"Every quilt is unique and they have all been made with love and patience for children to keep for life."

Jo Newman, matron for children's services at Airedale NHS Foundation Trust, said: "We think the charity is brilliant and are very grateful for these donations.

"When children come into hospital they can be very ill and feel vulnerable. Having a blanket to wrap around them can help them to feel safe, warm and secure."

Gilstead Craft Club meets at St Wilfred's Church from 7pm to 9pm every Friday.