A GROUP of knitters got to showcase their masterpieces at a grand Women’s Institute fair.

The Dolphin WI, from Braintree, went to Alexandra Palace in London to display various buildings they have impressively knitted.

The group of ladies started knitting together about two years ago, when they created a stunning take on St Michael’s Church.

Elaine Pye, a member of the group, said: “That was so successful that we carried on and the girls were all keen to do some more.

“This year we knitted St Peter’s Church and I think that’s our best one so far.

“The church looks quite plain on the outside but it’s lovely on the inside, so we focused on the inside.

“We took it down to the church on St George’s Day and we were re- ally pleased with it.”

The chairman of the group asked if they would like the rest of the buildings to be displayed elsewhere.

At the group’s request the knitted masterpieces were taken to the Alexandra Palace WI Fair for a four-day display last month.

Mrs Pye said: “Everybody was absolutely thrilled to bits that there was so much attention given to them.

“People have written some lovely things about them.

“In October we have been invited back to a knitting and stitching show.

“We didn’t dream when we first started out we would come this far.”

Braintree historian and Times columnist Mike Bardell had written short extracts to go on display with each building.

The group is now taking the displays to talks around the county to raise funds for the institute.

They plan to keep the buildings until next year but are unsure of what to do with them next.

In November the ladies created a knitted picture of Braintree and Bocking Gardens — they also have a collection of buildings and market stalls in the town.

In September they knitted an 18 inch replica of Bradbury House Care Home, complete with unique details such as lace curtains, for the residents.

Their next project is a knitted picture of the Rayne Road cottages for Warner Textile Museum.

For the WI’s 50th birthday next year they will knit a dolphin banner.

Dolphin WI meets on the fourth Thursday evening each month in Braintree Community Centre, Bocking End.

Visit dolphinwi.co.uk.