Many Hands celebrate first anniversary of community crafting

The Many Hands crafting co-operative at No. 25 Kirkgate celebrated its first anniversary on August 1st. Pictured above are five of the Community Interest Company's seven directors. Standing are Janet Phillis (left) and Pauline Marshall. Seated left to right are Rachel Mellor, Janet Thomas and Kath Cole.

Many Hands, which has an open-door policy based on community involvement, rents shelf space to a wide variety of crafts people from within a 15-miles radius of Silsden to sell their work. Volunteers staff the shop.The not-for-profit company has been awarded lottery funding to expand its workshops, classes and mentoring service.

The popularity of Many Hands reflects a growing "experience" culture and a trend towards unique, hand-crafted, hand-made gifts and wares.

These distinctive mugs and coasters are produced by local artist Martin Williamson.

Craftwork on sale and or taught in classes includes crocheting and knitting, jewellery, floristry, silver and metal work, embroidery, pottery and wood turning. There are also informal social drop-in groups. "Our aim is to work with the local community and to offer something for everyone," says chairperson Kath Cole. "We are going from strength to strength."