A “CLOSE-KNIT” group who meet up not just to crochet but to “sew”- cialise urgently needs wool donations to be able to continue fundraising for teens with cancer.

Bury Knit and Natter, which meets at Bury Library, holds a sale each year and donates all takings to The Christie’s Young Oncology Unit — last year giving more than £1,300.

The group’s youngest attendee, 26-year-old Kate Killeen, had surgery and radiotherapy at the unit at the age of 18.

In 2005, just a week before she was due to start university, Kate was diagnosed with a pituitary gland tumour.

After taking two years to recover, she still undergoes artificial hormone replacement therapy due to a damaged pituitary gland and has problems with her energy levels.

Kate, of Brandlesholme Road, said: “It means a lot to me that the group thought of me when looking for a cause close to their heart.

“There are not many oncology units just for teens and young adults in the country, so it is great to give back to them.

“I have been involved with Knit and Natter for two years — after taking my mum down to a session I got roped into staying for a chat and now they have taken me under their wing.

“I go when I feel up to it although I prefer making homemade greetings cards than knitting. I do a bit here and there — my mum keeps persevering with me!”

This year’s Knit and Natter sale will take place on September 21 at Bury Art Gallery.

As well as the Bury group, which meets from 12.30 to 3pm on Mondays, a regular session is held at Dumers Lane Library from 10am to noon on Wednesdays.

Bury Library Knit and Natter founder Cyndy Mayor-Talks, aged 74, of Dumers Lane, said: “We welcome all levels of ability — even if you do not know how to knit, crochet or sew, you can come along and have a go.

“Our oldest member is 90, but the social aspect is very important for all attendees, especially those who live on their own.

“It is a fantastic group, full of lovely ladies — although men are welcome too — and we always have a really good laugh. Once we get going the library gets very loud!”

Other Knit and Natter groups meet across the borough at the following locations: 2-3pm on Thursdays at Radcliffe Library; 1.30-3.30pm on Thursdays at Brandlesholme Library; 2-4pm on Tuesdays at Moorside Library; 5-7pm on Wednesdays at Topping Fold Library; 10-11am on Tuesdays at Whitefield Library; 10am-noon on Tuesdays at Coronation Road Library; 2-4pm on Fridays at Unsworth Library; and 10am-noon at Red Bank care home.

Wool donations can be dropped off at Bury Library during opening hours.

For more information on Knit and Natter: call Bury Library on 0161 253 5872; Cyndy on 0161 796 8098; or email bury.lib@bury.gov.uk