Knitting appeal aims to give students a ‘peerie hansel fae hame’

AN APPEAL has been launched encouraging people to donate knitted hats, scarves, gloves, headbands and socks which would then be given to Shetland students on the mainland in a show of support during the pandemic.

The project aims to deliver a “peerie hansel fae hame” during a time when students may be struggling at university accommodation following outbreaks on the mainland.

It is estimated there could be around 400 students away from Shetland at the moment. Parcels containing a knitted gift and a message of support from the Shetland community will be sent to students nominated by families or friends.

Alternatively people can make a cash donation to support the appeal.

Knitwear should be sent to, or dropped off at, the Shetland Museum and Archives in Lerwick. Donations sent through the mail should be addressed to: A Peerie Hansel fae Hame, Shetland Museum and Archives, Hay’s Dock, Lerwick, Shetland, ZE1 OWP.

Advertisement2 of 10

The idea for the appeal came from Yvonne Reynolds, the lifelong learning officer at the Shetland Museum and Archives.

“The idea for the appeal was inspired by a Fair Isle jumper on display in the Shetland Museum galleries,” she said.

“The much loved and well-worn jumper was a comforting reminder of home for its owner, a WW2 soldier, whilst he was away from Shetland.

“Many Shetland students currently find themselves in lockdown at university on the mainland. Some, away from home for the first time. It can be a difficult time, many miles from family and friends in Shetland.

“I wanted to find a way for the Shetland community to express its support by sending a peerie hansel (gift) from home.”

Students receiving a parcel are also encouraged tag #apeeriehanselfaehame in any photos shared on social media.