THANKS to the outstanding work of a Lochgelly woman, people in Ukraine will have some comfort as the harsh winter weather starts to bite.

Cowdenbeath Rotary Club is sending 100 shoeboxes to children in Eastern Ukraine to ensure that children in need will have a Christmas present on December 25.

And thanks to Minnie Simpson, there will be other items heading to the country which is battling for freedom.

Rotary Club president John Gilfillan said: “I would like, on behalf of all our members, to thank Lochgelly lady, Minnie Simpson, for her kind donations of beautiful hand knitted blankets for our ongoing Ukraine appeal, and also woollen dolly figures which will be sold for Rotary charities.

“I am not an expert, but have never seen such high standard of knitwear, and all very colourful, clearly taking up a great deal of Minnie’s time.”

Central Fife Times: The woollen dolls created by Minnie which will be sold to boost the rotary charities fund.The woollen dolls created by Minnie which will be sold to boost the rotary charities fund. (Image: Contributed)

John added: “Minne is extremely passionate about her knitting, first picking up a pair of needles during her primary school years, and tells me that she would much prefer to knit for others rather than watch television. But she needs wool and hopefully any members who might have a horde of wool stacked away, could get in touch so we can help Minnie.

“I say well done Minnie, I am sure that the good people of Ukraine, displaced by the cruel war they have experienced over almost 21 months, will find some warmth and comfort in your lovely woollen blankets."

John’s appeal for wool for Minnie has already borne fruit.

He said: “A large bagful of wool has arrived from Bowhill lady, Dawn Covani. Dawn also knits for charitable causes, and was more than pleased to help Minnie out, but Minnie would welcome even more wool.”