Dalton woman brings colour to town with post box toppers

Gillian Sinclair, who lives in Dalton, has been crocheting for 50 years and a few years ago decided to take her skills to the next level by making toppers for post boxes on Tudor Square and Prince Street.

The 64-year-old has voluntarily added her creations to the post boxes and has made several of them to celebrate festive seasons such as Spring, Valentine's Day and Halloween.

Halloween topper. (Image: Submitted)Her latest toppers are Easter themed with bunny and flower designs which have captured the hearts of the Daltonians. 

Gillian explained she gets her inspiration online and knits them while watching TV. The work is fully made by herself and one topper can be completed within a week if she 'concentrates', she explained.

"I thought it might cheer the town up a bit. If people are going to the post office they can see them at the post boxes," said Gillian.

"I have seen people who have done them and they are really intricate. I just do little simple ones with nice colours and hope that it makes somebody's day."

Easter topper. (Image: Submitted)She said knitting was a skill that more people should have as it is a 'relaxing' hobby.

She said: "A lot of people used to be taught by family members years ago but I think that a lot of younger people are now starting to do more knitting and crocherie.

"We always used to be taught to do it at school as well - I do not think schools do stuff like that now."

On a Facebook post by Dalton Community Action Group, her toppers were shared attracting dozens of likes and comments. 

The post said: "Here is Gillian Sinclair the wonderful lady who tops our post boxes with her wonderful creations. Thank you, Gillian."

Gillian is now planning to knit more toppers for the Summer season, Halloween and Christmas.