|
|
|
 Local business start-up wins national award in just 7 weeks 
When it comes to knitting, Lianne Gerrish can tell a yarn or two. Christmas has come early for 39-year old Lianne. The Great Cornard entrepeneur has landed a national award for her fashion business Cranford Crafts just seven weeks after starting up the yarn and wool store concession at Long Melford's Cherry Lane Garden Centre near Sudbury. "I had only just moved into my little shop at Cherry Lane when I got the call to say I was nominated in the Best Independent Yarn Store category by readers of our top hobby magazine, Let's Knit," says Lianne. "It was just the best news I could get for Christmas!" But now delighted Lianne has got even better news. Cranford Crafts, which sells fashion yarns, patterns and accessories, has come fourth out of all independent yarn shops in the UK. "I just want to say a huge thank you to those lovely customers who voted for Crandon Crafts" says thrilled mother-of-three Lianne. "I have no idea who voted but I am thrilled to have made such a positive impression," she adds. Cherry Lane Long Melford store manager Sharn Cleverly was equally delighted for her. "Lianne's shop is a delight and she has a real passion for her subject," says Sharn. "We are all very proud of Cranford Crafts." Lianne is the Long Melford site's first concession and Sharn expects more to open on the site during 2013. The QD Stores' owned chain also operates concession shopping villages at its sites at Tickhill in Yorkshire and Braintree in Essex. As a Cherry Lane concession, Cranford Crafts is preparing for a busy festive season with lots to see and do at the High Street site in Long Melford. Santa's Workshop and Nativity displays are open and late night shoppers on November 29th can enjoy mulled wine and mince pies as well as helping Santa's elves give out chocolate coins to the kids. And enthusiastic Lianne has more to offer local knitting fans. Her Knit and Natter Evening at The Hare Inn in Long Melford last month was such a success she is going to make the coffee and chat sessions a regular fixture in the shop diary. Find out more at www.crandoncrafts.com and for tips and advice on knitting matters, check out Lianne's blog at http://crandoncrafts.blogspot.co.uk/
|
Home Page
