Galgorm Collection has provided funding to Braidwater Seniors, a group in Ballymena's Harryville area, to knit hats and blankets for newborn babies at Antrim Area Hospital.

The group, with around 20 members, donates knitted clothing to the hospital's Neonatal Unit about three times each year. The funding will buy extra wool to produce more items for premature and vulnerable babies.

Braidwater Seniors formed to address loneliness and isolation among older residents in Harryville. Lily Patterson of the group stated that members take pride in supporting local families and their babies alongside fostering social connections.

Julie Elliott, nurse practitioner in the Neonatal Unit at Antrim Area Hospital, noted that the handmade hats and blankets help regulate body temperature for small babies transitioning from incubators to cots. She added that some babies use up to four blankets plus a hat.

Tara Moore, Associate Director of Spa Operations at Galgorm Collection, said the company backs community projects that strengthen local ties, including aid for the area's youngest residents.

The donations assist staff in providing warmth and monitoring for unwell newborns in the unit.