They're small objects that are being used to get across a big message.

The Wymondham Dementia Support Group has launched an appeal to get together 17,000 knitted and crocheted forget-me-nots, one for every person in Norfolk living with dementia.

The group's organiser, Dianne Fernee, said the campaign was to highlight the lack of Admiral nurses, who are specialists in dementia.

Mrs Fernee said: 'Admiral nurses are a lifeline for people with dementia, but there are only two of them serving 17,000 people, which isn't nearly enough.

'Hopefully one day we will have as many Admiral nurses as cancer specialist nurses.'

Mrs Fernee said more than 5,000 forget-me-nots had already been made. Once the target is reached, the plan is to display them at the Forum in Norwich, and then auction them off to raise at least £8,000.

The proceeds would then go to fund more nursing hours.

She said Lord Dannatt and former Professionals actor Martin Shaw had agreed to knit forget-me-nots for the appeal.

Mrs Fernee said: 'We're also looking for any other well-known people who would agree to make us a forget-me-not to auction off and help raise the profile of the event.'

Mrs Fernee said the idea was inspired by knitted poppies she had seen at the Chelsea Flower Show.

Anyone who wants to contribute can get in touch with Mrs Fernee by email ferneed252@gmail.com or phone 07712 727897.

Do you have a story about a charity appeal? Email stuart.anderson@archant.co.uk