The 92-year-old knitter inundated with requests

A 92-year-old, who has knitted more than 10,000 socks for charitable causes, has set up a weekly group in his care home.

Harold Jinks, from Sandbach in Cheshire, first took up the hobby while waiting for his late wife while she attended Ray of Hope knitting group back in 2000.

He said he found it rewarding and did not mind being the only man to attend the knit and natter groups. “It was a bit strange at first,” the former postal worker said, “but I‘ve got used to it now.”

Together with Reverend Jennie Wakefield from the town's Baptist Church he set up a weekly knitting group and has been inundated with woolly requests.

Over two decades he has donated woollen garments to Leighton Hospital in Crewe, St. Luke’s Hospice in Winsford as well as churches and charities.

Mr Jinks moved to Elworth Grange Care Home earlier this year, having lived alone for ten years after the passing of his wife and adopted son.

Ms Wakefield supports him with his needlework, now he has lost sight in one eye and has partial vision in the other.

“I just do admire what he’s achieved,” she said. “I think he’s an amazing person.”

The knitters in the group appreciate the companionship, dexterity exercise and the sense of accomplishment, she said.

“Being able to turn out something good for another person is a wonderful achievement.”

Twenty four years on from his first attempt, Mr Jinks said he has a waiting list of requests for knitted garments.

“I’ve got a waiting list that I’m trying to keep up with,” he said. “I could do with four hands instead of two.”