Tying in nicely with the event’s nominated cause – the testicular cancer charity, Baggy Trousers UK ‘“ the drive to get men knitting also reflects the involvement of male wool and yarn exhibitors at the event; notably the Sockmatician ‘“ aka Nathan Taylor ‘“ who will be giving workshops and signing his book ‘Guys Knit. The Instruction Manual.’, and Stafford-based The Crochet Man – aka Lee Norton-Griffiths, with his amazing crocheted animals.

Any guys who feel they want to give knitting a go can take a seat on a comfy sofa in the festival’s ‘Have a go’ zone and enjoy a crash-course in the basics, with the chance to enter a prize draw to win some great prizes ‘“ including a meal for two at the Shimla Palace, Wolseley Bridge and a signed copy of the Sockmatician’s book. Wool @13 Creative Director, Ingrid Wagner, says:

‘For too long, wool crafting has been seen as a female preserve, meaning that men are sometimes reluctant to pick up a pair of needles ‘“ but there’s a long history of men working in the textile industry that we want to celebrate and encourage men to enjoy the huge benefits that taking up wool craft can bring. It’s a fantastic way to power down, giving brains a rest from busy modern lives jam-packed with commutes and screen time and is a brilliant stress-buster. We’re also proud to support Baggy Trousers UK as our nominated charity this year, and hope to raise a decent sum toward their crucial work through the sale of refreshments in the WI tearoom and a silent auction of handmade farmyard animals. ‘

Other attractions at this year’s show include the ‘Shop ‘Til You Drop’ marquee, workshops, a fashion show presented by the Stafford Steppers, an A & E Dept., housing The Knit Nurse & The Crochet Consultant for help with any woolly questions & tangles, the ever-popular street food fayre and live music from ukulele-playing ex-punk rockers, The Daisy Dukes & Not Quite Dead Yet.

The event will take place just 1 mile from J13 of the M6 ‘“ making it ideally placed for visitors travelling from far and wide. For those visiting as a family, Lower Drayton Farm’s friendly fun farm attraction can be accessed by ticketholders throughout the weekend; allowing younger visitors to meet the animals and let off steam on the adventure playground.

Tickets are available online now, priced at £5.50 for advance day tickets (on gate £7.50) and for advance weekend tickets £9.00 (on gate £12.00). To book and discover more about the show, which will take place on Saturday 18th & Sunday 19th May at Lower Drayton Farm near Penkridge in Staffordshire, head to https://wool-j13.uk/tickets/