In the July issue of the Village Newsletter we reported on the relocation of Ward’s Home Furnishings to 14 Church Street and on the closure of the tattoo parlour next door. Well 12 Church Street has a popular new tenant already!
“Everybody in the village has been so lovely and welcoming” says Karen Cragg – owner of the brand new business The Lovely Little Wool Shop, which opened on the 8th of July. “I’ve been knitting all my life and have always wanted to run my own wool shop – so now it feels like I’m on holiday!”
Karen is no stranger to Ruddington having worked here previously as an activities organiser at Orchard House and in the Framework Knitters’ Museum. Her new premises have been opened up into the original back room to give enough space to stock all the items she has to offer.
Already the shop is filled with many different colours and types of quality yarn plus a pretty array of handmade craft items including knitting needles, decorative buttons, woollen handbags and Karen’s trademark hand knitted tea cosies.
“I sent one of my cosies to The Queen to mark her Diamond Jubilee and she sent me a letter of thanks. I was so proud!” says Karen.
As well as a knitting group every Friday morning, Karen is also going to be hosting various workshops during August, September and October so urges you to pop in if you’re interested. And, whilst you’re browsing, there’s also tea and homemade cake for sale – with a choice of either a comfy sofa or al fresco table.
Meantime, four doors along at 2 Church Street, there’s a new owner at The Ruddington Fish Bar. Demetris Lawton took over the business with wife Anna, sister Donna and brother-in-law George on the 14th July.
“I come from a family of fryers in Stafford – basically I was BORN in a chip shop!” says Demetris. “I’ve been working abroad for the last few years but have a lot of friends in Nottinghamshire so I started looking to open a business here when we got back. It’s great to have found this opportunity in Ruddington – I love it!”
To start with, Demetris is concentrating on bringing the quality of the existing menu of fish & chips, kebabs, pizzas, etc. back up to standard. He then plans to add healthier options like salads. Subject to planning permission, both an interior and exterior makeover should follow soon!
By Graham Wright