NIMBLE-FINGERED knitters have come together to make an England scarf for the Duncan Edwards statue, despite a disappointing World Cup defeat.

The bronze statue of the football legend, which sits in Dudley town centre, will have the red and white scarf wrapped around it this weekend ahead of the third place play off against Belgium tomorrow (Saturday).

The Knit and Natter group, who meet every week at Needle and Pins haberdashery store in Stone Street, started work on the special scarf after England got through to the semi-final on Saturday.

It is the first time since 1990 that an England squad made it through to the semi-finals and people from across the borough were gripped by the World Cup fever.

Claire Pulfer, owner of Needle and Pins, said: “We have been inspired by the amazing football and team spirit shown by our boys over in Russia and we felt it was only right that something was given to the statue of Duncan to mark this huge occasion.

“Just like everyone, we are gutted that Gareth and his team won’t be fighting in the final but we are immensely proud of all they have accomplished and we hope the scarf will bring them some good luck when they face Belgium on Saturday.”

Councillor Alan Taylor, Mayor of Dudley, said: “I am thrilled to see members of the community coming together to celebrate the talent and dedication of our side and I know that our home-grown hero Duncan would have been proud to wear this beautiful home-made scarf.

“Despite the disappointment of not making it to the final, the legacy of this fantastic World Cup will live on for many years to come with lots of children and young people no doubt taking a keen interest in playing the sport.”

The Knit and Natter group meet every Tuesday at the Needle and Pins store from 10am to 12pm.

New people are welcome to drop in anytime and there is no need to book in advance.