Preston North End ask fans to knit giant scarf

The idea was inspired by a traditional-style "bar" scarf

A unique craft project celebrating one of the founder clubs of The English Football League has been revealed by the club and The National Football Museum.

The Giant Scarf Project is a collaboration between the National Football Museum and Preston North End Community and Education Trust (PNECET).

It will see groups and individuals invited to create a "very special piece of woolly art".

Inspired by a fan’s embroidered neckwear from the 1960s, participants are being encouraged to knit a strip – or strips – of a PNE-coloured scarf.

PNE was one of the Football League's 12 founding clubs

They will be sewn together to produce a giant muffler in a traditional design, which will be displayed at a special celebration in Spring 2025.

A museum spokesman said it would stretch from one side of the pitch to the other at the club's Deepdale stadium.

“This is a brilliantly creative way to celebrate Preston’s footballing history but it’s much more than that – it’s about bringing communities together and providing inclusive opportunities for everyone to engage in the culture of football," said Tim Desmond, CEO at the museum.

He added: “An idea like this creates a sense of unity and celebration, helping to tackle loneliness and isolation, and improve the wellbeing of our communities.

"Football inspires people like nothing else, and we cannot wait to unveil the finished piece.”

Michael Barrett, heritage coordinator at PNECET, said: “Nothing says nostalgia in football like the traditional bar scarf.

Fans are invited to participate

"This fantastic partnership with the National Football Museum celebrates Preston’s rich football history."

Fans wishing to participate can pick up a knitting pack including a ball of navy or white wool, needles and an instruction sheet at the PNE Club Shop, PNECET Offices, Ingol Library, Sharoe Green Library and Ribbleton Library.

PNE was one of the 12 founding clubs and the first team to win a league and FA Cup double in the inaugural league season 1888-89, earning the nickname "The Invincibles".