Telford craft centre marks its 25th anniversary
A quarter of a century ago a former Victorian tile factory was up for sale, and there were fears for the building's future.
Flash forward to the present day and more than 30 independent businesses now make the Maws Craft Centre in Jackfield their home, and the site is celebrating its 25th birthday.
Sabine Townend, managing director of the craft centre in the Ironbridge Gorge, said she and her husband Peter, and a number of other tenants, put great efforts into saving the building back in 1988 when the Telford Development Corporation announced it was selling the site.
They managed to persuade 15 leaseholders using the site to come together to create Maws Craft Centre Jackfield Ltd.
"We have not looked back from there," she said. "The last 25 years haven't altogether been easy but we have survived many hurdles along the way, including recessions, economic crises and the highs and lows of retail.
"One of the reasons behind what we did was to protect this historic building, dating back to 1883, for future generations to appreciate. It was important for us that its use reflected the creativity of the area both now and in the past.
"We wanted to provide a home for some of the wonderful independent businesses that there are in Shropshire."
She added: "We have some exciting plans for the future and look forward to celebrating many more anniversaries."
The centre will be holding a private anniversary party for tenants and are also putting on a Halloween party for visitors on Thursday from 4pm to 6pm, with entry costing £2.
On November 23 the centre will hold its Winter Fayre. Stalls cost £20.
For more information about Maws Craft Centre go to www.mawscraftcentre .co.uk To book a stand at the Winter Fayre call Sabine on (01952) 883030.
