A group of Measham residents have joined together to create knitted hearts with a purpose - to support those going through difficult times or bereavement and remind them they are not alone.

The Measham Friendship Group have been creating small 'Pocket Hug Hearts' to remind people going through hard times that someone cares, spreading kindness, community spirit and connection.

The project began in February 2025 when Local Area Coordinator at Leicestershire County Council Bryonie Mellor shared a request from LOROS Hospice for handmade hearts to comfort patients receiving end-of-life care and their families.

Within weeks of the initial request, The Measham Friendship Group has produced more than 300 hearts, with members getting involved in knitting or carefully packaging each one.

The group, which meets weekly to craft and socialise, has now created over 800 hearts.

Jenny, one of the group's main knitters, wanted to get involved as a way of giving back as her late husband has received care from LOROS.

She said: 'I was happy to be asked to knit the hearts because it was my way of paying back the kindness that everyone at LOROS showed to me when I needed them.'

Michelle Clark, LOROS Matron, said: 'The hearts are a lovely way for bereaved families to feel closer to their loved ones.

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'Families tell us they carry them with them for many years afterwards and it brings them comfort at a difficult time.'