Knitters in Colchester have been set the challenge of making 6500 woolly hats to raise cash for charity.

Age UK and drinks company Innocent are joining together for the tenth year for the annual Spread the Warmth campaign.

For each mini hat, which are designed to fit smoothie bottles, Innocent will donate 25p to the charity.

This year the charity is hoping to create one million woolly hats, and Age UK Colchester has been tasked with making 6500 towards this total.

Edward Pentney, general manager at the local branch of the charity, said: “People in the Colchester area have been supporting The Big Knit for several years.

“Winter can be a really difficult time of year for many older people so it’s really important that local knitters get involved to help us raise funds for our vital winter projects.

“We need knitters to help us reach our goal so that we can run services like our Electric Blanket Testing and other projects to help older people stay warm and safe during the cold weather.”

To get a free hat pattern and to find out more about the campaign contact Age UK Colchester on 01206 368420.