A GROUP of keen knitters and crocheters have been ‘knitting for koalas’ in Bude recently, raising much-needed money for RSPCA Australia.

Clare La Broy of Bude has been raising money for RSPCA Australia by holding knitting workshops making koala bears.

Clare has been given the materials required for each bear and is asking for a donation of £10 for each pack which will be sent in full to RSPCA Australia.

She said: “I saw news reports showing the devastation caused by the recent bushfires. The damage to the environment and animals was heartbreaking. One report showed a confused koala bear drinking from a firefighter’s water bottle.

“I wanted to do something to help and thought that we could raise some money by getting together and knitting a toy koala bear. The response has been fantastic and we have already held one workshop with another planned next weekend. The packs are also available for knitters and crocheters to buy and make at their own pace at home.

“I am amazed by the generosity shown and am very grateful to everyone who has supported this. I’m hoping to raise £500 and we are well on target!”

Koala bear knitting packs are available at Clare’s Little Wool Shop which is in Belle Vue Lane, Bude. Clare can send packs out in the post for anyone who can’t get to her shop.