Villagers have given a warm welcome to Cuckfield’s newest trader Sarah Freeman who recently took over Sussex Crafts in the High Street.

“I think nearly everyone in the village has popped in to say hello, and it’s been really lovely meeting everyone,” said Sarah, who is already putting her stamp on the popular village shop following the departure of Philip and Sebastian who have left the village to start a new life in France.

The shop was closed for ten days while Sarah painted the walls, changed the layout, ordered new stock and prepared for the official opening day.

“The opening day was really busy as it was also market day, “ said Sarah. “It was great to meet regular customers and lots of new faces. I don’t think I sat down all day!”

A keen knitter, Sarah will continue to run the popular Knit & Natter and Chat & Crochet sessions, but also plans to introduce new crafts such as quilting, creative sewing machine stitching and sugar paste cup cake decorating.

“At heart I’m a knitter, but I also like to sew and can crochet a bit, and am happy to have a go at anything,” said Sarah, who will be bringing in tutors to teach new crafts.

Children will also be well catered for as former primary school teacher Sarah is planning to run after school and holiday clubs offering a variety of crafts, including polymer clay, knitting and origami. “My favourite part of teaching was showing children a new skill and watching them learn, so I’m looking forward to welcoming them into the shop,“ said Sarah. “I’ll also be offering birthday parties tailored to a child’s age and interests.”

She also plans to get involved with village events and has already been signed up to judge the crafts at the annual Cuckfield Show. Sarah is keen to hear from any local craft tutors who are interested in running courses at Sussex crafts.