Knitting shop gets national notice

12:03pm Tuesday 11th December 2007

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CLOSE attention to the latest in knitting trends and rare yarns have earned a Malvern business a coveted place on the Guardian newspaper's national shopping directory.

The Knitting Parlour, in Graham Road, Great Malvern, joined 999 other independent retailers on the list, which celebrates the particular pleasures of small businesses.

The shop is the only business in Malvern to make it onto the list.

Co-owners Vicky Walker and Pat Jones opened the store three years ago and have steadily built up a collection of dedicated regulars, who are drawn to the obvious love of the business they both display.

Vicky said: "We get people from far and wide. Some people plan their day here around coming into the shop."

Vicky can be found trawling US and Canadian internet blogs in search of the latest must-have yarns for her customers.

She said: "We have one called Sea Silk, made out of seaweed and silk. It's hand-dyed in Canada and quite sought after."

The shop's inclusion on the list has already generated interest with visitors commenting on seeing them online.

Vicky puts the shop's popularity down to the passion they all show for their craft, with all staff members being able to offer advice and assistance.

"We are all very keen knitters," explained Vicky.

It's not the first time that the Knitting Parlour has generated praise, with the shop winning the Platinum Award during the Malvern Hills District Council's excellence awards in 2006.