A Middlewich creative business that is helping people develop new skills, connect with others and explore their creativity has welcomed council leaders as part of the Made in Cheshire East programme.

Cheshire Clay Studio was established in 2023 by Liz Anspoks and Lisa Pritchard out of an informal group that started in 2018.

It has grown from a small pottery studio into a thriving creative hub offering pottery experiences, courses, memberships, workshops and specialist masterclasses for people of all skill levels.

Based at Lowe's Farm Shop near Byley, Middlewich, the business has built a reputation for providing an inclusive and welcoming environment that supports both hobbyists and professional ceramic artists.

Through its programme of activities, Cheshire Clay Studio promotes creativity, skills development, wellbeing and community engagement.

The visit formed part of the council's Made in Cheshire East initiative, which showcases businesses from across the borough and their contribution to the local economy. The established programme highlights the strength, diversity and innovation of Cheshire East businesses.

During the visit, Councillor Nick Mannion, leader of Cheshire East Council, and Councillor Michael Gorman, deputy leader, met the founders to learn more about the business's growth journey and its contribution to Cheshire East's creative economy.

They also discussed the opportunities and challenges of operating a rural business, the importance of supporting creative enterprise and the role businesses such as Cheshire Clay Studio can play in attracting visitors, developing skills and supporting community wellbeing.

Councillor Mannion said: "It was a pleasure to visit Cheshire Clay Studio and hear directly from Liz and Lisa about how they have grown the business into a successful and valued creative enterprise.

"Their journey from establishing a small pottery studio to creating a thriving, creative hub is a fantastic example of the entrepreneurial ambition and innovation we see across Cheshire East.

"The studio is creating opportunities for people to learn new skills, express their creativity and connect with others, while also making an important contribution to our rural visitor economy and cultural offer."

"Our Made in Cheshire East programme is about celebrating businesses that make a positive difference to our communities and local economy, and Cheshire Clay Studio is an excellent example of that success."

Lisa Pritchard, co-founder of Cheshire Clay Studio, said: "Although we didn't originally set out to become what we are today, the demand from people wanting to learn how to make with clay and become part of the pottery and creative community has driven our ambitions to become a real hub for ceramics, arts and crafts in Cheshire."

The business has also benefited from Cheshire East Council support, receiving a £10,000 Cheshire East Sustainable Inclusive Growth Grant as part of a wider £19,570 investment programme. The funding has helped the studio expand its facilities, improve energy efficiency, reduce carbon emissions and create capacity for future growth.

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