Tom Daley has unveiled a limited-edition ‘Scratchcard-igan’ in collaboration with The National Lottery, blending festive knitting with the chance to win cash prizes. The 31-year-old former Olympic diver, known for his knitting hobby, has created 100 cardigans featuring scratchable panels that reveal hidden messages and, for some, a £500 prize. Fans can enter by commenting “Merry Scratchmas” on The National Lottery’s Instagram post by 30 November.
Daley described the project as a way to spread joy and creativity, adding that knitting has become a platform for mindfulness and self-expression. The campaign aims to add playfulness to Christmas, highlighting the £30 million raised weekly by National Lottery players for good causes.
However, the launch comes amid controversy over Daley’s new Channel 4 series, Game of Wool: Britain’s Best Knitter. Shetland knitters have accused the show of misrepresenting traditional Fair Isle techniques. The first episode challenged contestants to reimagine the iconic style, which originated in the Shetland Islands in the 18th century.
Members of Shetland’s Organisation for Knitters (SOK) claimed the programme blurred lines between authentic Fair Isle and other colourwork, and objected to the use of “imperfectly modified needles”. The Shetland Stitch Club has called for an apology and a documentary celebrating genuine Fair Isle craftsmanship.
Channel 4 responded that it holds Shetland’s knitting culture in the highest regard, stating contestants were asked to reimagine Fair Isle with a modern twist that acknowledged and celebrated the tradition.
