THE identities of the publicityshy “yarnbombers” remains a tightly-knit secret – but the group has finally broken its silence.

The creative knitters, who call themselves Darn Crazy, gained worldwide recognition for their colourful 50ftlong scarf celebrating the Olympics which adorns Saltburn pier.

They have chosen respected local community journalist Mike Morrissey to spread their word with a statement and photographs. The short message, which was sent to Mr Morrissey, read: “We are delighted with the imaginative and amusing cover that you have given to our Olympic yarnstorm on Saltburn pier.

“Many satisfying hours of secret planning and knitting have paid off in the many visitors also enjoying our work.

“We are happy to share some of the photos we took for our own pleasure, while maintaining the anonymity of yarnstorming.”

The statement is signed “Saltburn Yarnstormers”.

The scarf mysteriously appeared on the pier early last month and became an overnight sensation, attracting visitors from across the region.

Despite the attempts of a young vandal, the colourful scarf, which includes knitted athletes from rowers to weightlifters, still retains its charm on the seafront.

Mr Morrissey, who received the anonymous note and memory stick, said he didn’t know the knitters’ identity, but felt the communication was genuine.

“I’m passing on photos, as requested, by Darn Crazy to the media for them to be used at no charge. I hope it adds a bit of fun to life.”

Two people who know the identity of the knitters are sisters Sheila Wheatley, of Marske, and Angela Morton, of Saltburn, who run the wool shop Ripping Yarns in Dundas Street West, Saltburn.

Mrs Morton, who worked in the catering industry for many years, said: “We don’t think they are members of any known group in the town, but one of them let it slip about them being the knitters.

“However, their secret is safe with us as our lips are sealed. We think it best their identity remains anonymous.

It makes the story more exciting.”

Mrs Wheatley, a retired social services worker, said: “We opened our shop in mid- March not knowing about the scarf on the pier.

“It was a coincidence that we opened at the time of all the publicity. But it’s been really good for business.”