LITTLE Rocky Jelfs-Biss snuggles up in a beautifully crocheted Afghan blanket. But it isn’t any usual blanket.

It’s part of the T21 Travelling Afghan Project. This very special item is making its way from one family to another all over the world.

The common thread is Down’s syndrome.

“It started in America in 2009,” explained Rocky’s mum Kirsty. “Each family keeps it for a week and then passes it on to another who has a child with Down’s syndrome.”

So far, hundreds of children have enjoyed the blanket. It has travelled right across the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia, India, North Africa and Europe.

This week it landed on the doorstep of Kirsty and four-year-old Rocky, who live in Talbot Village. As well as the travelling Afghan, the package comes with a journal charting its incredible journey.

The pages are filled with photos and thoughts from each family, and by the look of things, the blanket has been well received across the globe.

Kirsty is now due to send the parcel on to the next family on the T21 list.

T21 stands for Trisomy 21, the medical name for the syndrome which is caused by an extra 21st chromosome. The Afghan’s travels are testament to the support for families who live with Down’s.

Locally, a couple of informal groups are held each month – Ups and Downs who meet at Rossmore Children’s Centre, and Downs in Dorset at Somerford Children’s Centre.

Bekki Frost, whose three-year-old son Will has Down’s syndrome, founded Ups and Downs last September.

“It’s really a playgroup for pre-schoolers where the children simply happen to have Down’s syndrome,” she explained.

“It’s all very informal and we spend most of our time chilling out and having a chat while the little ones play together.

Jenny Holness and her eight-month-old son Jack also attend. “It’s lovely to have these get-togethers and I have made good friends here,” she said.

Ups and Downs meet at Rossmore Children’s centre, Herbert Avenue, Poole on every second Tuesday of each month, 1.30pm to 3pm.

Downs in Dorset gather at Somerford Children's Centre Solent Room, Draper Road, Christchurch, every first Friday of the month, 12.30pm to 2.30pm.

For more information contact Bekki Frost on 07542 294143