Hats and blankets have been knitted by Banbury residents to be donated to the baby care unit at the John Radcliffe Hospital.

The knitters at Highmarket House Care Home crafted 18 blankets and 80 hats, including Santa hats, for the Oxford hospital.

Denise White, 86, a resident at Highmarket House, said: "I gave up knitting before I came to Highmarket House as I struggled to follow the pattern, but I’ve found I can still knit small things, and I like to knit every day now.

The clothes were donated to the baby care unit at the John Radcliffe HospitalThe clothes were donated to the baby care unit at the John Radcliffe Hospital (Image: Care UK) "Baby hats are perfect for me because they don’t take long, and I’ve also knitted some small Christmas treat bags for our fete."

Francesca Cowley, home manager at Highmarket House, added: "The residents have put so much love and effort into creating these beautiful items for new-borns.

"It’s been heart warming to see their enthusiasm and dedication, knowing their work will bring comfort to little ones and their families during the festive season.

"The team at Highmarket House, along with residents and their families, hope these knitted creations will bring a little extra warmth and joy to families spending Christmas in the baby care unit."

The care home provides full-time residential, nursing, dementia, and short-term respite care.

It incorporates space for hobby and leisure activities and includes its own cinema, hair salon, and cafe.