KINTTERS in Cirencester are being asked to take part in appeal that could help save the lives of premature babies born in Zimbabwe.

It is hoped that the initiative, started by Zimbabwe-born Nicky Baber, will see people in Cirencester knit tiny hats which will be used to keep the premature babies warm.

Nicky was inspired to start the scheme after learning from her brother-in-law, who is studying for a PhD in the African country, that the babies are dying needlessly through loss of warmth.

She said: “The hospitals out there do not have even the most basic things to keep the babies warm. Even though it’s hot out there, it’s not as warm as it is in their mother’s tummy. I don’t believe that they have incubators out there.”

The appeal has also been launched in memory of former South African president Nelson Mandela, who died last week aged 95.

Nicky said: “It’s in honour of him. He loved children and it’s all about doing something and not just sitting back.”

Initially, Nicky is hoping to collect around 20 small hats to take over to Africa at the start of the New Year.

All knitted hats must be brought to Deb Richardson in Three Sheep Wool in Cirencester’s Wool Market.

For more information, phone Three Sheep Wool on 01285 643345.