BRIDGWATER has a new hub of creativity where crafters and artists can sell their products and run classes to teach others valuable skills.

The Artisan Centre Somerset, which is based on Queenswood Road in Bridgwater, has been set up by furniture recycling specialist Tracy Gulasi.

The shop had its official opening on Thursday, January 2, with Cllr Gill Slocombe heading along to cut the ribbon.

Mrs Gulasi said: “I manage the shop known as The Artisan Centre Somerset.

“The aim of the shop is to create a central point for crafters and artists to show and sell their products, as well as providing a dedicated space to run classes for all crafts, including guest classes run by local crafters/artists.

“For my part, I’m passionate about rescuing furniture and preventing it from reaching landfill.

“I set up my business, Classic & Custom Furniture, in 2015 with the idea that I could teach people how to re-love those pieces of furniture that they saw no use for in it’s current state.

“I specialise in upholstery but can also offer furniture repair, painting and decoupage classes as well as commission work.”

Cllr Gill Slocombe, who is the ward councillor for Durleigh, said she was honoured to be invited along to open The Artisan Centre Somerset.

“I felt when I saw the shop it was just lovely and will bring a different culture to Bridgwater and to Durleigh,” Cllr Slocombe said.

“It is a place where creative people will be able to come together and will be good for the community.

“It is something different for this part of town, and I hope it will be very successful.

“The staff are very welcoming, and there are some interesting vintage items on display.

“I encourage everyone to go along and take a look.”

The Artisan Centre Somerset held a special craft fair just before Christmas to give local people a taster of what the store will have to offer.

For further details on classes or if you are interested in renting space in the shop, contact Tracy on 07890 718305 or search for The Artisan Centre Somerset on Facebook.