Following the news that two Dunmow galleries will be closing, a business owner has offered space in her shop to give crafters a new platform to showcase their talents.

Louise Poulton is calling for anyone and everyone who wants to unleash their work to the world – whether it is art, woodwork, flower arrangements or upholstery.

Mrs Poulton, who owns The Gallery on the Park, in White Street, felt passionate about doing something for the creative folk of the town after hearing about the two Dunmow venues closing.

She said: “I think people will really miss them when they are gone. There are so many talented people in the local area but they have nowhere to show off what they do.

“Everyone is good at something but not everyone has the means to get it in the shops. I can see this being a good starting point for people.

“I am appealing for people with all talents to get involved. I do not just want it to be artists.

“Absolutely anyone with a craft is welcome to exhibit.”

She is offering people a two-week slot at her shop, where they can takeover a window and a set of shelves with their work.

They will be in control of advertising and setting prices for their pieces. A percentage of everything they make will be donated to the neonatal unit at Broomfield Hospital.

Mrs Poulton’s grandson, McKenzie, was born eight weeks prematurely and is currently being looked after on the ward, in a £30,000 incubator, which is why she picked the charity.

She added: “The nurses on the unit are amazing. They work around the clock and there is always someone constantly looking at the babies. They really deserve our support.”

The picture-framer hopes to have the space up and running with an exhibitor by September.

If anybody is interested they can either drop into The Gallery on the Park or call Mrs Poulton on 01371 874074.