NEVER mind Hairy Bikers, a new service has opened in Worcester for "teary" bikers.

It specialises in repairing torn zips and leather on motorbike leathers, something that is often very expensive or even impossible to carry out because the material is so heavy.

As part of a major expansion of its centre, The ZipYard in The Shambles has invested in a new sewing machine that can cope with heavy leather motorbike jackets and trousers and other tough materials. It has also put in three more sewing machines and a large cutting table, so the professional in-house seamstresses can work on oversize items.

The tailoring and alterations centre opened its doors less than a year ago and is already working at almost full capacity. Owner Paul Meredith said: “We have had so many requests to mend motorbike leathers that as part of our expansion we decided to invest in a heavy-duty machine able to cope with such tough materials as well as adding another three standard machines. Now we can carry out repairs or replace zips in heavy garments quickly and at a reasonable price.

“Since we opened in April we have got steadily busier and busier as the people of Worcester and surrounding areas found out about the extremely high level of workmanship and service we offer. With this extra capacity we can turn garments around even faster and if it can fit under a sewing machine we can repair it.”

From dress re-styling and taking in or letting out garments to bridal-wear fitting or formal wear alterations, The ZipYard can do it all. There are two on-site fitting rooms, where The ZipYard’s trained seamstresses can pin up alterations in situ. There is also a one hour express service for zips, hems and minor repairs.