A businesswoman has brought her trade to Horwich, a town which is known for its vast mix independent shops and businesses.

And she is urging people to see what is on their doorsteps and shop local.

Kimberley Minnis first opened Kimberley’s Krafts in Walkden town centre 11 years ago, and after some thought decided to take on a new challenge when the opportunity came up to open a shop on Lee Lane in the town centre.

Formerly knowns as Fine Yarns, and when Bridie Tonge decided to retire, she asked Kimberley if she wanted to take over the lease.

After moving to Bolton into Halliwell, Kimberley says that she fell in love with Horwich town centre, and liked the fact that there was quite a wide range of independent shops.

The Bolton News: She said: “All the shops are pretty much all independent, as well as there being quirky shops in the area, and it just felt right.

“It’s really important that people shop locally, especially with what happened during Covid.

“At my previous shop we were doing home deliveries, and it was very personalised.

“We are trying to fight back with a lot being online, and the big businesses selling wool, which has had a massive effect on knitting shops that have had to close down.”

Kimberley explained that whilst some items may be found online or at big supermarkets, not everything can be, including the personal service, and the quality of products.

She said: “You can ask about substitutes, or I can give advice on choosing the right buttons for example.

The Bolton News: “I can also pick up stock that big organisations can’t, as well as going to the warehouse and picking things out.

“We offer more of a service and the sense of community.”

Since opening the new shop Kimberley has seen some familiar faces from her previous shop, as well as some new customers, including some of Bridie’s customers who were happy to see a similar business in the space.

Kimberley first got into to the knitting industry when her mum owned ‘Sewing’ in Oldham market and developed her passion from there whilst also working for William Briggs.

The main thing that she loves about her job is that it if something different compared to working in an office.

She said: “You get to meet lots of people and have new conversations whilst helping them.

“I am really excited because it’s a completely different place and there are different people here, and it’s a different way of doing business.”

Kimberley’s Krafts specialises in wool and haberdashery, which includes buttons, ribbons, needles, sewing accessories, zips and more.

Horwich traders have previously called on people to have a look what is available in the town centre, with loyalty schemes introduced too.

The shop has changed its opening hours and is now open from Monday to Friday from 9-4.30pm.

If you have a story and something you would like to highlight in the community, please email me at jasmine.jackson@newsquest.co.uk or DM me on Twitter @JournoJasmine.