On Saturday 30th July local knitting enthusiasts went along to the opening of 'The Knit Club' on the High Street in Caterham-on-the- Hill. 24 year-old Louise Dungate opened the shop following the closure of 'The Yarn House' so the community still had somewhere to buy yarn. Visitors to the launch party enjoyed tea and cakes whilst sharing knitting and crochet tips.

Louise said: "I was very surprised by the response on Saturday. Lots of people came, drank tea, ate cake and shared knitting knowledge. It still hasn't sunk in yet that I've opened my own shop."

Louise took up knitting whilst working at an advertising company that had a 'knit club', which inspired the name of the shop.

After designing her own knitwear for two years Louise decided to start selling some of her collection.

Preferring to knit accessories such as hats and scarves, Louise has developed her own signature style of 'Big Chunky Knitting'.

She is currently working on a commission to create 38 garments for 'Dagny & Barstow', a new boutique opening in New York this month.

Starting in September, Louise will be holding her own knit club on Thursday evenings for anyone who wants to learn, or simply wants to enjoy knitting with others. A crochet club is also going to be held; the day is still to be confirmed.

"Anyone who's interested in knitting should just do it," said Louise. "Knitting with a group of people is great, you get inspired by others, get to share knowledge and show off your work. Knitting is making a comeback!"

The Knit Club sells a variety of brands of yarn, such as: Rowan, Rico, Sirdar and Artesano at a range of prices. Louise would love it if you stopped by for a cuppa and for all your knitting needs.

For more information about The Knit Club call Louise on 01883 345220.