A YOUNG fashion designer is using her time and talents in lockdown to raise funds for those struggling in care homes through the Covid pandemic.

Interior designer Anna Twyford has raised more than £1,100 for Age UK while living at home with her parents in Barrow during the lockdown.

Using her grandmother’s sewing machine, Anna’s creations have helped raise much needed funds for Age UK.

“I started this little project while living with my parents in lockdown,” said the 24-year-old, who lives in London.

“I love making things.

“I started sewing one morning and made all these bits and bobs. I thought I might as well try and raise something for charity.

“I sold some to friends and family, then through Instagram. I’ve sent them across the world. It is like a little adventure. We are raising money every day which is great.

“The main idea behind it was from thinking of my grandmother, who I’m so close with, and the older generation in the care homes who are sometimes overlooked.”

Anna was inspired by her grandmother, and by the example set by Captain Tom Moore who raised money for charity.

She used her skills from her time studying fashion design at the Leeds Art University.

Her efforts brought her a lot of attention on social media.

“I’ve been making scrunches, some masks and other things out of the fabric I’ve got at home,” she said.

“My grandmother was a dress maker so she sent me a lot of vintage fabrics which people have really liked.

“Lot of bloggers and influencers on social media promoted me as well so got some great feedback.

“I just haven’t stopped sewing and it’s really helping me too to keep busy.

“There are days I’ve been sewing from eight in the morning until ten at night.

“For the last five weeks I’ve been sewing every single day. I didn’t think it would reach this.

“It just kept going up and up. It’s really exciting and humbling if I can make a small difference in my own way.

“There’s so many kinds words sent my way. It feels like a full-time job. Lots of people say such nice things and it really keeps me going through all of this. I wanted to say a big thank you to everyone who believed in me and supported me through this project.”

Anna will continue to work to help raise money and all her profits will be donated to Age UK.

Age UK was launched in 2009 and is the largest charity for elderly people in the United Kingdom.

To support Anna and her work please visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/anna-twyford.