A KNITTING project has raised more than £2,000 for a mental health charity in Norton. The Buddy Bear Appeal, launched by the Thornton le Dale Crafty Hubbers in October, has donated a cheque to Next Steps for two hearing loops and a community fridge. The Buddy Bear Appeal is similar to a chain letter, with the idea of knitting three bears to pass onto a friend, family member, neighbour or someone who is struggling. “The Buddy Bear Appeal has been doing very well,” said Denise Rajab, a member of the Thornton le Dale Village Hub. “So far, the Crafty Hubbers, which is part of the Thornton le Dale Village Hub, has knitted more than 400 bears and the community has been brilliant in supporting our mental health project.