THREE generations of one family have set up a knitting production line to boost an appeal for miniature hats.

For eight years, Age UK Oxfordshire has called on nimble-fingered supporters to knit hats for Innocent smoothie bottles– with 25p from each hat-clad smoothie going to the charity.

Last year, county knitters turned out 12,155 hats, raising £3,000 for the Spread the Warmth campaign, and aim to equal the total this year.

Among the knitters is Penny Thewlis, 59, her mother, Doreen Thewlis, 85, and daughter Alice Whittaker, 26.

They knitted 1,000 hats between them for the previous campaign. Ms Thewlis said: “My daughter is a convert and we have a bit of a conveyer belt going.

“It is nice to have something three generations of a family can enjoy – and you feel you’re making a difference.”

The family, who all live in Charlbury, have even taken their knitting on holiday, sitting in Venice cafés making hats.

Knitters have until October 1. Call 01235 849400 or visit ageuk.org.uk/ oxfordshire . Hats should be sent to Age UK, St Edmund House, 39 West St Helen Street, Abingdon, OX14 5BT.