The last full weekend in October would normally see Kendal invaded by knitters, crocheters, spinners, weavers and crafters as they head to one of the town’s most popular events.

However, now in its ninth year, Kendal Wool Gathering (KWG) will be going virtual due to the Coronavirus pandemic.

Chair of KWG’s committee Mandy Dixon said: “I will miss welcoming so many fabulous exhibitors and visitors in person to Kendal this year but thanks to the talent of our wonderful small team we are able to extend a warm woolly welcome in a virtual way instead.

“Please continue to support us by visiting and buying your wool supplies and patterns from our inspirational “woolly family”, as it could be a long, chilly winter ahead.”

Kendal Virtual Wool Gathering will see small businesses from across the country taking part with local businesses - Norwegian Wool at Artisan Felt and Stitch and Arty Bird and the WoolClip - all looking forward to being involved.

The weekend will see an updated KWG website, which will provide viewers with an online plan of the event with links to exhibitor’s websites and videos.

The main event will happen on KWG’s Facebook group – where there will be live demonstrations from exhibitors who will be posting their woolly wares and answering questions.

Sara Last, a member of the KWG committee said: “Without our fantastic stall holders and their wonderfully woolly wares there would be no Kendal Wool Gathering.

"We want to ensure that Kendal Wool Gathering returns in 2021 and for that to happen we need our stallholders to be still trading.

"Covid has affected small business throughout the country within every sector and the wool, textile and crafting sector is no different.”

If you would like to attend the virtual show join the Kendal Virtual Wool Gathering group on Facebook.

Or visit kendalwoolgathering.co.uk for a direct link through to the Facebook group and a list of exhibitors.