PEOPLE are being urged to knit and donate blankets to those in need with the Thistles launching a charity campaign.

The Stirling shopping centre has teamed up with social enterprise Coorie Creative to provide knitted goods to those moving into homes with the help of Start Up Stirling.

The campaign aims to combat the impact of rising energy prices in a community support initiative.

Coorie Creative, based in the Thistles, has become not only a donation station, but it is also hosting events to allow people to come together and knit.

Throughout May, weekly Craft for Good sessions are being hosted every Tuesday, between 10am and 4pm.

Items created will go to support Start Up Stirling's starter pack kits, which help people starting a tenancy following homelessness, a crisis or significant change to their personal situation.

Gary Turnbull, centre director at Thistles, said: “We created the #ThistlesHelps initiative to give back to the community wherever we can, especially after the difficulties we’ve all experienced over the last two years.

“Moving into a new home under any circumstance is stressful but especially for those who are experiencing hardship, which is why we’ve chosen to support Start Up Stirling, a charity which provides an invaluable resource to so many across the area.

“Between the rising cost of living and increase in energy and heating prices, we want to play our part in allowing the local community to come together and help those in need.

“In partnership with Coorie Creative we hope to make the transition into new accommodation even the smallest bit easier and hope that this campaign will demonstrate once again the kindness and generosity of people across Stirling and Forth Valley.”

Items going into starter packs include practical basics, such as crockery and towels, as well as the blankets, tea towels and other items to be created by knitters.

Julie Christie, communities and fundraising manager at Start Up Stirling, added: "We are delighted to be working in partnership with Coorie Creative as part of the #ThistlesHelps Initiative.

“Their support will make a big difference to the people that we provide help for in the Stirling area who are living in hardship.

“We are hoping that the keen crochet enthusiasts and knitters from across Forth Valley will come and volunteer to support the campaign.

“If you would like to learn to knit or crochet, this is a great way to gain a new skill, as a gift that is made especially for someone is such a special thing.

“We are looking forward to learning more about all of the crafts that Coorie Creative have to offer."

Email community@cooriecreative.co.uk to book a space in the Craft for Good group or to arrange dropping off a donation.