100-year-old Ethel’s amazing knitted nativity

A 100-year-old resident of a sheltered housing scheme in Combe Down in Bath is bringing a little festive joy to passers-by with a nativity scene she’s knitted.

Prolific knitter Ethel White, who has raised more than £4,000 from knitting,  took just two weeks to create the festive scene which includes Mary and Joseph, baby Jesus in a manager, the three wise men, shepherds and a donkey.

Ethel said: “It didn’t take me very long at all. I’ve been knitting 80 years and am knitting all the time. Knit, Knit, Knit! I’ve put it in my window so people can see it when they go by and show it to their children. I wanted to do my bit at Christmas to try to cheer people up.”

Ethel who was born in Western Australia, sailed to England to visit relatives at the age of 14, but when the Second World War broke-out she never returned home and after just three weeks started working at Cooks factory in Twerton making bespoke men’s suits.  She married and had two daughters and now enjoys being a great great grandmother. She lived independently before moving to the Orchard Extra Care Centre three years ago.

Jan Welsh, shift leader at the Orchard, said: “Ethel really is amazing. She’s always knitting. Everything from rabbits to ducks, hats and to jumpers and even nursery rhymes.  She knits for charity and has raised more than £4000.”

Ethel’s now turned her attention to knitting Christmas decorations.

Councillor Rob Appleyard, cabinet member for Adult Services, said: “What a fabulous achievement. Ethel’s 80 years of knitting experience certainly shows, her nativity is fabulous and will bring a smile to all that see it. Ethel is one of the many talented residents we have in our care homes and it’s wonderful to see their fantastic creations come to life. I am certainly impressed that over £4000 has been raised for local charities, that’s worthy of a mince pie and a glass of sherry.”