‘Toorie tree’ offers extra warmth to those in need this winter

12 December 2024 16:30

A group of people in festive clothing pose beside a Christmas tree made of knit hats on a staircase indoors.

Back row, from left to right: library team leader Nicola Sinclair, library assistant Lee Paton, Loose Ends owner Dee Henderson-Haefner, senior library assistant Kaye Riise, library assistants Martha Morrison, Elsa Manson and Aaron Leask. Front row: library team leader Catherine Jeromson and council leader Emma Macdonald. Photo: Shetland Library

A CHRISTMAS tree with a difference has been unveiled in the Shetland Library in Lerwick.

The ‘Toorie Tree’ is made of knitted and crocheted hats of all shapes, sizes and patterns – more than 180 in total.

Contributions came in from members the community, as well as from a new knitting group which has been meeting every Wednesday.

Designed to provide extra warmth and comfort to those in need this winter, people are able to take one hat without having to show any need or ask for permission.

Senior library assistants Louise Arcus and Louise Scollay drew inspiration for the tree from similar projects they had seen on social media.

This led to the formation of the Library Makkers group in September.

The wider community also embraced the project, with individuals and knitting groups from across the isles donating hand-made hats.

After showcasing a preview of the hats in the library, many community members expressed an interest in making donations in exchange for a hat.

While this was not the original goal of the project, the library welcomes contributions from those who are able to give.

All donations will be directed to the Shetland branch of the Trussell Trust foodbank to further support local families in need.

Council leader Emma Macdonald had the honour of unveiling the tree this afternoon (Thursday).

“Libraries offer warmth and support throughout the year and they are at the heart of our communities,” she said.

“This project is testament to that. At a time when the cost of living crisis is affecting so many, the Toorie Tree not only offers practical help but also symbolises the strength of local connections and kindness.”

Catherine Jeromson, team leader of library reader services, added: “We’d like to thank everyone who have embraced and contributed to the Toorie Tree project.

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“This includes individuals who knitted and crocheted hats, as well as organisations that donated yarn, such as Loose Ends, Jamieson & Smith, and Jamieson of Shetland.

“Also thanks to the SIC Youth and Employability Service who constructed the base of the tree. Your generosity has made this initiative a true community effort.”