A HAWORTH woman has exploited her passion for art and design by launching a new business in the village.

Katie Shelmerdine opened Lighthouse Lane at 19 Main Street last Saturday. (May 2) The shop sells giftware, children's fabrics and artwork.

Mrs Shelmerdine said: "I'm currently on maternity leave from my job in a bank, as my husband and I had our first baby in April 2014.

"I've always enjoyed art and design and while on maternity leave I decided to design a range of kids fabrics and artwork.

"These works are colourful and quirky and all unique to me. I create them by completing an acrylic painting which is then scanned in and printed digitally onto fabric in Keighley.

"I then make the fabric into lampshades and the cushion covers are produced locally in Cross Roads.

"There are also co-ordinating prints which can be personalised with children's names and dates of birth.

"I launched the collection at the British Craft Trade Fair in Harrogate this April.

"A few weeks ago the opportunity to open a shop in Main Street presented itself, and I decided to take the plunge and go for it."

Mrs Shelmerdine, who lives in Ivy Bank Lane, added that she is selling her items alongside the work of other independent British designer makers.