A SHOP that opened just a few months ago in Builth Wells is to close this week.
Hazel Martin described launching The Silver Pig, a sewing shop, as realising a childhood dream, after the High Street venue opened at the beginning of November.
But now, Hazel, who is in her 60s, says she has been advised to shut down because of ongoing health concerns.
“Hello everyone, sadly I have to break the news that The Silver Pig will be closing at the end of January,” Hazel revealed, in a post that appeared on The Silver Pig Facebook page on December 29.
“This has been such a difficult decision to arrive at.
“The last few months have placed an enormous stress on us, and for medical reasons I am advised not to continue.
“I will continue opening throughout January and will keep updating The Silver Pig page. Many thanks to everyone for your support.”
Hazel has been sewing since she was seven years old. After leaving a nursing and caring career 6 years ago, she was enjoying her retirement.
Then, through selling her clothing and other products at the Corner Collective over the last 18 months, she decided to take the plunge and open her own shop.
The Silver Pig opened at No. 22 High Street on November 1, selling fabrics, craft supplies and preloved clothing.
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Hazel also offered a range of sewing and dressmaking workshops and classes in a fully-equipped sewing studio, which she described as “my happy place”.
“I’ve been sewing since I was a little girl, and I always wanted my own sewing shop,” said Hazel in November, who was inspired after being involved with the Corner Collective – another town centre shop that sells and promotes the products made by local artists and crafters.
“I was there as a maker, and this shop came up, so I thought perhaps this is the time, my last adventure.
“Sewing’s been a lifelong passion, I’ve been doing it for 60 years. I’ve always made my own clothes, as well as bears and dolls, quilting and embroidery.”
She alluded to her health issues in November, saying: “I’ve had years of health issues, my back is crumbling and I have fibromyalgia.
“I was walking around on crutches, and everything was so difficult. But, after 18 months there (The Corner Collective), I’ve rebuilt my confidence and I’m like a new person.
“It’s really helped my physical and mental health, and this shop is now my happy place.”
News of The Silver Pig’s closure was greeted with sadness, with it described online as “a lovely treasure trove of a shop”.
Hazel has been posting updates throughout January, urging customers and locals to come and grab a bargain, with everything in the shop for sale.
The Silver Pig closes for good this Friday, January 23.
