A NEW group is being set up to promote the work of local craft producers in the Cardigan area.

Cardigan Bay Collective is the brainchild of Cilla Lewis, who will be familiar to many residents in the town as the owner of Caffi Carn Alw in the Markethall.

But Cilla is also a talented ceramic artist and her Carn Alw Pottery wares are proudly displayed next to the café.

Now she is looking to bring crafters in the Cardigan area together under one umbrella to promote their skills and “to put the town on the map” as a crafting centre.

“There has been a great deal of interest in the idea and so far we have 16 people already interested to form Cardigan Bay Collective,” said Cilla.

“We will be primarily based at the Corn Exchange gallery, where we will stage regular events and we will also be looking to travel to other events where we will be looking to promote what Cardigan has to offer in terms of craft skills.”

Crafters on board already range from upcycled furniture and hand-knitted items to decoupage, original watercolours and oil paintings and hand-made soaps and candles.

“The idea is that everything has to be handmade and local – nothing can be bought in,” said Cilla, who originally went to art collage and has always maintained her interest in pottery and ceramic art.

“We would like to be in the gallery on a regular basis and the first event is being planned for November 18-24.

“Not only does it give crafters a regular outlet, it would also prove to be an added attraction for the town and bring something a bit different to go alongside all the improvements that are being made such as the app, free Wi-Fi and its nomination in the Great British High Street awards.”