In 2022, Jane Hitchcock, a pensioner from Thakeham, West Sussex, decided to follow her dream and open a yarn shop. One year on, The Sussex Yarn Collection in Storrington is going from strength to strength.
The shop offers a wide variety of wools, yarn, and haberdashery to suit every type of pattern and budget.
"I'm so thrilled at the support we've had from the locals," said Jane. "We've built a real little community. But it's not just Storrington," she continued, "we've had customers from far and wide - from the Isle of Wight to Germany."
The Sussex Yarn Collection caters for all levels of experience. They offer weekly classes in both crochet and knitting, and even hold a "drop in" session every Saturday where crafters can come in with problem pieces for advice. The shop was officially opened on 14th October 2022 by local MP, Andrew Griffith.
“I’m pleased to hear The Sussex Yarn Collection is still going strong,” said Mr Griffith. “I know how important small businesses and independent shops are for the local economy and community. As part of a rural constituency, it’s important that residents have easy access to a vibrant, diverse, and thriving high street. The Sussex Yarn Collection plays a key part in the ongoing success of Storrington High Street.”
Jane is looking forward to what the next year will bring. "We've got a number of amazing workshops in the pipeline," she explained. "We're working with some exciting new pattern developers and will be offering 3-hour sessions for local (and not so local) crocheters to learn new techniques."
You can visit The Sussex Yarn Collection at 3, High Street, Storrington or at sussexyarn.co.uk