Hemel Hempstead woman knits baby clothes for neonatal unit

A woman from Hemel Hempstead has kept herself busy during the coronavirus pandemic by knitting sets of baby clothes for the neonatal unit at Watford General Hospital.

Brenda Kilford, 71, who is a resident at Water Mill House Care Home, was asked by staff what she liked doing best and needles and a stream of brightly coloured wool were supplied when she answered “knitting”.

The 71-year-old has been a keen knitter since the age of 16 and during the past months she has knitted 16 matinee jackets and matching hats and three baby blankets for premature babies being cared for at the hospital.

She sent the sets of knitted baby clothes with a note to the matron of Watford General Hospital neonatal unit, Elvira Baker.

Brenda said: “My grandson was a premature baby weighing just 2lbs 2 oz. Which is why I wanted to knit the clothes for the neonatal unit.”

Victoria Forsythe, home manager, said: “Brenda hadn’t knitted anything for years but with some gentle support and encouragement from my team she took it up again enthusiastically.

"All of the clothes she has knitted are so beautifully executed.

"And as well as knitting for the neonatal unit, she also knitted outfits for two members of our team who were expecting little ones too. It has been lovely to see her so happily occupied."

Matron Elvira Baker, who received the clothes, said: “Brenda’s simple act of caring is heroic. Knitting all those clothes for the neonatal unit is inspiring."