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A jewellery making hobby that flourished has moved up another level with the opening of SilverBoo Studio.

Tracey Walsh’s gleaming craft has emerged in premises on Grimsby’s Enterprise Village, with the mezzanine unit featuring retail space and workshop.

Almost a decade on from first picking up the tools of the trade, she has moved it out of her Scartho home and is looking into employing support in the new year.

“It started as a hobby, but there are only so many pieces you can make for friends and family,” she said as a launch event was held to mark the move’s completion. “I was enjoying it so I set up my own little business. It went well, with really good support locally, and I have been looking after regulars trying to build my brand from there.

“Now we have the studios I can offer jewellery workshops, which will become an integral part of the business, as well as the shop and workshop coming together.”

It could have been somewhat different had an entirely different course not been booked up though, as the former local government worker sought an interest as her children became less dependent.

“I wanted to do a photography class but it was full,” Mrs Walsh recalled. “I did jewellery instead, and from the first session it was brilliant. I was there with a blow torch and hammers, I was hooked! I loved it, and the options – with just so many things you can do – I am always learning.”

Buying in the raw materials, be it silver sheet, wire or charms, she handcrafts the individual items, with masters sent to trusted casters for bulk production while bespoke items stay with her.