BARROW’S Independent MP John Woodcock officially opened the fourth annual St Mark’s church yarn bomb in the town – an event that provides free-of-charge clothing to families who are short of the basics.

Pastor Gill Grisedale and her team of volunteers have spent months knitting and crocheting items of family clothing that were put on display all over the Buccleuch Street building.

They also operate a clothes bank and have made a successful appeal for members of the public to donate a range of school uniforms.

Mr Woodcock was joined by pupils from St George’s Little Dragons Nursery at the launch.

He said: “Anyone who knows Gill will testify to her caring outlook and her determination to make things a bit more tolerable for families and individuals who are feeling the pinch.

“Years of government austerity has left its mark on our community but the people of Barrow always live up to their reputation for being ready to help anyone who is struggling.

“It is an honour to be asked to open this year’s St Mark’s yarn bomb and I am proud to be associated with Gill and her fantastic group of volunteers.”

Mr Woodcock contributed a brightly-coloured bobble hat knitted by his partner, Isabel Hardman, who has recently taken up the pastime.

Mrs Grisedale said: “Today has seen the fourth annual yarn bomb at St Mark’s and it is our opportunity as Christians to reach out to our community in love.

“The theme this year is Love Thy Neighbour and we want to bless our community and share what we have with others. I am so grateful to all the volunteers – “pebbles” – and to those who have donated items to make the day a success and show God’s work in action.”