RESIDENTS in a Falmouth road have been meeting once a month over the last year to knit long arms that can be wrapped around a nearby public space.

The projects have been organised by Cornwool Craftivista CIC, as one of four street level "craft and activism" projects.

Sarah Perry, of Cornwool Craftivista CIC, said: "These projects have been about strengthening neighbourhoods and raising awareness about issues important to residents from two to 100 years of age.

"It's been a great way of doing something creative together and meeting with neighbours in a fun and gentle way."

Residents in Marlborough Road have been looking for lost, old, odd and worn gloves found on pavements, hedges and beaches to make two big hands for the entrance gates to The Bowly, a park off Trelawney Road. 

"All we need is gLOVEs", has been their message. 

On Sunday, December 1 neighbours gathered to attach the woollen arms and hands to the railings and gates of The Bowly.

The big hug is making residents smile. One of them described it as a "joyful community event with great energy and purpose".

Over the same weekend, handmade 'Sit with Me' and 'Walk with Me' banners and walking sticks were attached to the outside of Langholme Care Home and the four benches on Arwenack Avenue.

These messages invite passers-by to spend time with someone they may or may not know very well, as the key to aging well is making new connections and continually learning and playing.

The project was awarded a National Lottery Community Fund grant to work with three streets in Falmouth on a Craftivism and wellbeing project.

The project will end in March 2020 with a celebration of each street's achievements at Falmouth Art Gallery and library.