Christmas woolly hat appeal sees 'wave of generosity'

A separate appeal was also run for clothing, toiletries, and essential everyday items

A local charity saw a number of warm hats distributed to crews visiting local ports in the lead-up to Christmas.

The Isle of Man King George’s Fund for Sailors (KGFS)'s woolly hat appeal invited members of the public to knit or crochet hats.

Chair Captain Lee Clarke MN said: "Seafarers work tirelessly, often spending long periods away from family, including over the Christmas period. 

"Their efforts ensure that many of the comforts we cherish — from festive food and gifts to heating, fuel, and travel — remain possible.

"These appeals are our way of acknowledging their dedication and reminding them that they are valued, appreciated, and seen."

Trustees visited the Steam Packet vessels Manxman and Manannan to personally deliver the donated hats.

Accompanying them onboard were David Gooberman, Director of Harbours, and Rob Hunter, Operation Manager for the IOMSPCo.

In addition to the woolly hat initiative, the charity worked in partnership with Isle of Man Maritime to run a separate appeal for clothing, toiletries, and essential everyday items. 

These donations have been sent to the Liverpool Seafarers Centre, to be distributed to seafarers in need while working at sea during the Christmas period.

The charity would like to give a special thank you to all those who lovingly handmade hats for this year’s appeal, including:

• Knit & Knatter group, Castletown
• Gillian Ross and friends
• St Mary’s on the Harbour
• Dick Welsh MBE
• Isle of Man Maritime
• Isle of Man Steam Packet Co.
• Helen Hillier
• Isle of Man Ship Registry

They've also thanked Zurich Isle of Man and Boston Multi Family Office for their contributions.

For more information about the appeals or the charity’s ongoing work supporting seafarer wellbeing, contact:

Nathan Rogers, Hon. Secretary

Isle of Man King George’s Fund for Sailors (215)

nathan@kgfs.im

www.kgfs.im