DURHAM CATHEDRAL is appealing for donations of wool in Army greens, browns and beiges to help with its latest First World War commemoration project.

When the war broke out, local newspapers, including The Northern Echo, encouraged their female readers to get sewing and knitting to create comforts for the brave boys in the trenches. In August 1914, the Echo offered a free pattern to every reader who promised to create a “sleeping helmet” so the soldiers could nod off quickly after a hard day’s fighting.

The Echo said the sleeping helmets could be made out of any remnants, including dressing gowns or dress remnants. Quite what the Germans made of the sight of their opponents at nightfall donning a cap made out of a piece of leftover floral skirt is anyone’s guess.

But in those early enthusiastic days, “a veritable army of women workers” eagerly volunteered their handicraft services.

“In busy, bustling town and quiet, sleepy hamlets, the needles are being busily plied with an endeavour to do something that shall be of service to the country’s cause,” said the paper.

The cathedral is hoping to recreate this enthusiasm – and some of the simple soldiers’ comforts.

“We would like to encourage local schools and community groups to engage in this long lasting tradition by giving them the opportunity to create simple knitted items which we will display as part of our First World War exhibition during the October half-term,” says the cathedral education department. “We have created some packs to get schools and community groups started, and are now putting the final few items together.”

So if you have any spare Army-coloured wool, please send it, or drop it off, at the cathedral marked “education dept”.