A COLOURFUL and craft-filled event took place in Cirencester over the bank holiday weekend.
The Cornhall in Cirencester hosted the inagural Cotswold Wool Weekend and was transformed into a crafter's haven of bright and bustling stalls on Saturday, April 29 until Monday, May 1.
This three-day event was organised by Louise Millard who wanted to reconnect the town with its wooly heritage and celebrate wool's journey from farm to fibre.
The woolly activities began with a short but sweet speech by Louise which was shortly followed by a yellow ribbon cutting by hairdresser turned shepherdess Zoe Coalville.
Zoe also stayed to give a talk about her new book The Chief Shepherdess: Lessons in Life, Love and Farming.
Over 30 exhibitors showcased their woolly crafts and talents over the weekend displaying an array of goods including rainbow socks, crochet kits and knitted cards.
Artist Nellie Hearn, known for his colourful cattle paintings, was also present.
The mezzanine floor of the arcade provided the perfect get-away from all the hustle and bustle and hosted several workshops over the weekend.
On Saturday morning a small class of eager crafters gathered at a felt punching workshop to learn how to make bumble bees from wool under the watchful eye of Sarah from I Felt Fantastic.
Like many other stall holders present at the event, her business started off as a hobby.
Sarah said: "Crafts like this are great for mindfulness.
"It gives people the opportunity to escape the hecticness of everyday life and focus on learning a new skill and create something beautiful.
"This weekend is just the start of what's to come.
"Louise and I have spoken about next year's event and she hopes to bring some of the woolly action outdoors.
"We hope to have sheep pens and other outdoor activities to make this an event for the whole family to enjoy."
Plans are already underway for next year's event which will take place across different towns and villages in the Cotswolds during the autumn.
To find out more about the Cotswold Wool Weekend visit https://www.cotswoldwoolweekend.com/
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