Yarn-bombing Dorchester transforms street into knitting wonderland

Ms Croot’s efforts have not gone unnoticed after her skills with a thread and needle have won praise from Dorchester mayor Richard Biggs and several councillors.

Mr Biggs said: “It’s always heartwarming to see what people are doing in Dorchester during lockdown.

“Some things are inspiring and industrious from litter picking, tree planting to putting displays up in their windows and gardens to lift spirits.”

Ms Croot said: “We’re living through difficult times and it’s getting people smiling.

“I started this project by making some rainbow designs on my drainpipes and it’s snowballed from there.

“I’ve even repurposed a rusty water and a wheelbarrow.”

Now in her 60s, Ms Croot, who learnt how to knit at age six, has yarn bombed street signs and a post box, which she said was applauded on the Royal Mail’s website.

Cllr Fiona Kent Ledger, who lives in Casterbridge Road, said: “I know the local children love it as you can hear them talking about it. Not being a knitter I’m amazed at how she has placed something on the post box. Such skill.”

Ms Croot and fellow Casterbridge Road homeowners have formed a group with activities to keep both adults and children occupied and in touch with each other.

Cllr Rory Major said: “It just reinforces the fact that we’re all in this together and an act of kindness or thought can go a long way in making someone else’s day.

“We should all thank Jean for cheering her neighbours up in difficult times.”

Cllr Stella Jones said: “Everyone walking round there smiles when they see the colourful knitting.

“Even when it’s dull it brightens up the day, and it has survived many rainy days.

Hopefully it stay all year.”

“This knitting display has put a smile on faces,” said Mr Biggs.

“Will it start a trend or new challenge perhaps to neighbouring villages and our friends over the Ridgeway in Weymouth?”

Next on Ms Croot’s list is to yarn bomb an old rusty bike, which should be completed by summer.