A group of keen sewing experts meet every week to socialise and make quilts for good causes.

Twelve Isle of Man Heritage Quilters meet at the Manx Museum every Wednesday afternoon.

One of them. Brenda Williams, said: ’Quilting for charity is a beautiful way to give back to the community while practising the art of patchwork.

’Since forming, the group has produced more than 200 baby quilts for the special care baby unit and dozens of fabric hearts to help bonding between mothers and special care babies.

’Stunning quilts have been made and raffled for small local charities.

’Bright and cheerful syringe drive medication bags and drain bags have been hand sewn for Hospice and Noble’s Hospital, benefiting patients undergoing treatment.’

Members of the group often bring in their latest projects and while currently unable to accept new members, the group is always happy for visitors to pop in to the Manx Museum seminar room on a Wednesday afternoon to see their work.

Edmund Southworth, director of Manx National Heritage, said: ’The Heritage Quilt Group is a fabulous example of the island’s national heritage sites being used as a creative space by the local community.

’It is extremely rewarding to see our facilities being put to such good use, whilst supporting local charities and helping keep traditional skills alive.’

Brenda added: ’We have a wealth of talent among our group. Some members are experienced quilters, while others are completely new to needlework and enjoying learning a new skill.

’We are extremely grateful to Manx National Heritage for allowing the group to use the facilities at the Manx Museum.

’This enables us to produce hundreds of items of patchwork and needlework, which is donated or sold to raise funds for local good causes.’