WHEN Prince William and the Duchess of Cambridge’s baby is born in July, the world will be waiting for the first picture to appear and the name to be announced.

But a group of women in Ruislip will be more interested in what the newborn is wearing, because they are spending the next two months sewing and knitting clothes for the future king or queen.

The Free Knitting Workshop meets at Ruislip Manor Library twice a month to make clothes and knitted items for various causes.

In the past they have knitted items for premature babies and Oxfam shops, and also took part in Innocent Drinks’ Big Knit, a project to make hats for smoothie bottles, with a percentage from each one sold going towards heating the homes of older people.

But when looking for a new project, founders Sheeri Kapada and Evelyn Rose wrote to Clarence House, explaining what they do and whether the Duchess would like some hand-knitted baby clothes.

“We weren’t sure if we would even get a response,” said Mrs Kapada, “but a few weeks later they wrote back saying the Duchess would be delighted to receive some of our products. We were over the moon; the ladies were so pleased when I told them.”

The main project is a patchwork quilt for the royal baby, with each member making a small part.

“We are also making booties, babygrows and one of our members, Julia Underwood, has already made a lovely matinee cardigan.”

With the sex of the baby still top secret, the group is sticking to neutral colours.

“We have to bear that in mind, that the items need to suit a boy or girl,” said Mrs Kapada.

“We would be absolutely delighted to see the baby wearing one of our creations.

“It’s very exciting and we’re so pleased to be given this amazing opportunity.”

The Free Knitting Workshop is made up of 19 keen knitters.

“We’re not a teaching group but we are open to any knitters who want to do some charity work,” said Mrs Kapada.

The group is at full capacity but anyone interested can go on the waiting list. To find out more email sheeri@btinternet.com.