How the Fareham community is rallying to help save a popular arts and crafts shopÂ

AFTER a craft shop owner was evicted from his premises the week before Christmas, a community gathered together to save his business.
By The Newsroom
Published 24th Dec 2018, 08:23 BST
Updated 10th Jan 2019, 10:47 BST
Lesley Calls with some of the children attending Crafty Makery. Picture Credit: Keith WoodlandLesley Calls with some of the children attending Crafty Makery. Picture Credit: Keith Woodland
Lesley Calls with some of the children attending Crafty Makery. Picture Credit: Keith Woodland

Shane Davies was left overwhelmed by support and kind comments after he announced on social media his shop, The Crafty Makery, would be closing.

He said: '˜People said they loved coming into my shop and making things with their friends and children and asking how could they help.

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'˜Some customers set up a crowdfunding page to help me to move my equipment and then Cafe Imbizo across the road offered me a space and an office so I will be staying on West Street.'

Outside view of Crafty Makery. Picture Credit: Keith WoodlandOutside view of Crafty Makery. Picture Credit: Keith Woodland
Outside view of Crafty Makery. Picture Credit: Keith Woodland

The cafe, run by Fareham Community Church, opened up on Saturday for a Christmas craft workshop.

Shane said: '˜I think community is so important and I think my shop helps to fill that need in Fareham. It is a place I want people to feel welcome and now I am in Cafe Imbizo the coffee and refreshments on offer are a lot better!'

Now Shane is determined to use the art and craft space to provide workshops to vulnerable people, those with mental health problems and for the elderly.

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He said: '˜Healthcare and social services are at breaking point and I really think making things whether that be out of wood, metal or paint is very therapeutic and I have previously had people in with depression and anxiety who said they felt a lot better after an hour in the shop and there was no pressure.

Amanda Collins, Shane Davies and Leslie Ralls behind the counter at Crafty Makery. Picture Credit: Keith WoodlandAmanda Collins, Shane Davies and Leslie Ralls behind the counter at Crafty Makery. Picture Credit: Keith Woodland
Amanda Collins, Shane Davies and Leslie Ralls behind the counter at Crafty Makery. Picture Credit: Keith Woodland

'˜In terms of the elderly I would love to run weekly sessions so those who live on their own have the chance to get out the house and chat with others which will have a really positive impact on their health.'

Amanda Collins? and her son seven-year-old?  Lenny are regulars to Shane's shop and use the time to talk about Lenny's dad Karl Law who died while away on a stag do in Prague.

Amanda said: '˜

Related topics:PeopleFarehamWest Street