I HAVE just read three articles in the Oxford Mail relating to the very worthwhile Shoebox Appeal.
I wonder if the enthusiastic knitters are aware that we are instructed that NO HANDMADE TOYS are to be included in the shoeboxes!
Two years ago, following an appeal in the Oxford Mail for knitters I got patterns from the Shoebox Appeal website for various items – including teddy bears.
Last winter I knitted, among other items, more than 20 teddy bears, using new wool and top-quality toy stuffing, ready for this year’s appeal – only to discover last weekend that the official leaflet states that no handmade toys are allowed in the shoe boxes!
Only new toys with the relevant safety label are allowed.
I find that the shoebox website no longer includes the patterns and also stresses that handmade toys, along with other more obvious items, should not be included in the boxes.
Not only am I very disappointed about the time wasted, I am more disappointed for the children that will not receive the teddy bears.
Charity shops are apparently only allowed to sell handmade toys as bric-a-brac after labelling them “this is not a toy”.
Yet another health and safety issue, I assume.
Barbara Snell
Combe
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