Staff at a Norwich Haberdashery department have been amazed by the response they have received for their premature baby campaign for the second year running.

Partners at the John Lewis store decided to hold another two week drive this year to collect as many knitted hats as they could for premature babies who are cared for at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital's neonatal ward. Customers were asked to give up an hour of their time, and with wool and a knitting pattern provided free of charge, produce a hat for a newborn baby which will help regulate their body temperature.

After just four weeks customers produced 800 hats of all shapes, colours and sizes as well as 40 cot blankets that will now be donated to the hospital.

Gemma Crowe, section manager from John Lewis Norwich Haberdashery department, said: 'We are so pleased that we decided to run the campaign again this year, we have been overwhelmed by the response we have had from our customers, we would like to thank everybody who has given up their own time and has donated a hat or blanket for such a good cause.'

Jill Wakely, neonatal intensive care unit matron, said: 'I would like to thank everybody who took the time to knit hats and blankets, we rely on people to donate these as they are an essential part in helping to keep babies warm after delivery, they are also a nice memento for the mums to keep.