KATHLEEN Wildman stitched up the members of Astley St Stephen's with a charity appeal.

At a church service earlier this year the Mothers' Union stalwart called on the congregation to knit sweaters and teddies for the children of disaster hit Mozambique.

And the items flooded in.

Now Kathleen, of Wigan Road, Leigh, is keeping up the good work - and so are the mums of the parish.

Kathleen, who has been a member of the Astley MU for six years, after 37 years at Leigh St Peter's, said: "I had been moved by the tragedy on TV and decided we could help. The response was excellent with 46 jumpers and 47 teddies delivered within weeks.

"A lot of friendships have developed from such a simple task, with everyone from beginners to expert knitters joining in.

"Contributors have requested that the knitting continues, and since it gave so many people such pleasure, we will continue to collect any items produced and forward them.

"Our MU membership is 31 and growing and we now have many young mums with us, but more will always be welcome."

Anyone who wishes to join the 'great knit' should contact Kathleen for patterns on 674330.