Yarn bombers live in close knit area

If you have you will no doubt have noticed that the park is looking particularly colourful on these dreary winter days, all thanks to the Friends and volunteers associated with the park which has been ‘yarn bombed’!

For those of you who are not familiar with the term yarn bombing, the official meaning is the action or activity of covering objects or structures in public places with decorative knitted or crocheted material, as a form of street art.

Well as you will see from the photos featured here, the group – who have been busy since last September – have excelled themselves this year as the ‘Street Art’ features two new tableaux which really help to brighten up the park.

The group has been busy meeting at The Buttermilk Café on Highfield Road, throughout the Autumn with quite a few saying they are missing their weekly sessions.

Three years ago, Friends committee member, Irene Donovan, came up with this creative idea, which has gone from strength to strength as more volunteers have become involved and added their own creations.

Martina Cushen, who has created the Punch and Judy show and various other marine themed sections in this year’s display, is one of the particularly talented members.

The art of yarn bombing has become increasingly popular as a way to brighten up our surroundings and the group’s collection certainly make park visitors smile.

Of course it is not to everyone’s taste but the group has had many compliments passed their way.

The preparation for the event is just as much fun, but it is always good to hear the public’s thoughts on this year’s displays.

Take a walk through Highfield Park and enjoy this free display while it lasts as it is due to be taken down on Friday, February 24.