Diss craft store flying high as new owners who seek to build on the shop’s previous success

Having taken over a thriving small business, Leah Webster has set about building on those foundations to put together an even brighter future.

Albright of Diss, in St Nicholas Street, had been run by Gloria Rowe for almost 14 years before 41-year-old Garboldisham resident Mrs Webster took the reins in May.

“Myself and my husband were looking to invest in a local business and this is certainly a thriving business with real scope to grow,” she said.

“We have papercraft, embroidery, crocheting, felting and much more, and we recently had new sewing machines stocked, which mean we now have everything to make and repair clothing, bags and fabric items.

“The next step is to get an online shop up and running and we hope to have that done early next year. Until then, we have three craft heroes working at the shop who do two days a week each, and have different craft specialities.

“Being a part of the community and bringing that passion for craft and sharing that with others is an essential part of what we do.”

Along with selling a wide variety of craft-related items, the business also hosts workshops to help people to engage with different types of crafts and build their skillsets.

Upcoming workshops include pumpkin carving, and creating an advent calendar, with the sessions providing something for people of all ages.

“We’ve only been running them for the six months we’ve been here and there’s an element of trial and error, but the feedback has been great,” said Mrs Webster. “It’s all been really positive.

“We also do fundraisers and recently had a 10-hour sewathon for Mind and, alongside other craft shops, raised £5,000.

“I’m not from a crafting background myself, but I have really enjoyed seeing different customer projects, because there is always something interesting or unique being made by someone.”