A PENARTH woman is calling for 'an army of knitters' to help her support Welsh soldiers in Afghanistan.

The initiative, called ‘Hats for Heroes’, will send knitted hats to the soldiers in time for Christmas.

Penarth campaign leader, Tina Selby, wants to show appreciation for their bravery and courage.

She said: "The weather in Afghanistan can be extreme, from baking hot to freezing, so these hats will be a little bit of comfort for our troops.

"They are there fighting and we need to give them some moral support."

Tina, of Grove Place, decided to help when she heard the campaign was struggling for a contact in Afghanistan.

Using a contact in Maindy Barracks, she got in touch with the Welsh Transport Regiment.

"The hats will be worn when the troops are off duty so they do not have to be in specific colours," said Tina.

"At the moment we are knitting them mainly in rib so they can stretch to fit any size head - but any type of knitted hat would be appreciated."

Tina has already recruited six knitters from her line-dancing class who meet on a Tuesday and Friday, but she is looking for more.

The campaign is modelled on a large American project, but Tina is confident her team can match their efforts.

"Anything the Americans can do, we can do better!" she said.

The hats will be knitted in muted colours and the project wants to provide enough for 20 squadrons.

Knitted hats or donations of wool are both welcome.

For further details contact 029 2070 7894 or email tinas.selby@ntlworld.com