Great Dunmow Knitters
1927. Kathleen Shannon
1928. Jackie Monk
Kathleen Shannon and Jackie Monk, from Essex, have run a community knitting project in the village of Great Dunmow over the past decade, making knitted creations to top post boxes, benches and fences marking events such as the Olympics and Remembrance Day, and celebrating NHS heroes.
The pair first started sharing their knitted creations around the village in 2012, but during the Coronavirus pandemic, the project took on even greater focus as a way of bringing the community together and raising spirits. Kathleen and Jackie have also used the project as a way of raising money for charitable causes, and as well as making decorations, have also made hundreds of ear savers for frontline NHS workers and carers to wear with face masks and help them feel more comfortable when wearing coverings for long periods of time. Their latest series of themed knits will celebrate the Platinum Jubilee (pictured below).
Kemi Badenoch, MP for Saffron Walden, said:
“I am delighted that Kathleen and Jackie have been honoured with a Points of Light Award. The beautiful crochet postbox toppers we have seen in Great Dunmow really brighten up the town and never fail to raise a smile. The toppers knitted for last year’s Remembrance Sunday, honouring the sacrifice of those who have died in service of this country, were particularly impressive.
“Kathleen and Jackie’s knits have raised money for many charitable causes and I simply could not think of two more deserving recipients of this award. I send my very best wishes and warmest congratulations to them both.”
Kathleen and Jackie said:
“Wow, we are delighted to receive this award and a bit flabbergasted. It’s so lovely to have our work recognised. We don’t do it for recognition but it’s lovely for it to happen. We just love that everyone enjoys them and that they put a smile on peoples faces.”
