A WHARFEDALE mill will open its doors to the public for the first time this weekend.

Marton Mills Co Ltd was founded in 1931 and has been based at Pool Mills, Pool-in-Wharfedale since the early 1980s.

The company, which produces fabrics, usually supplies commercial clients but on Saturday, May 26 a pop-up shop will be held to let individuals see what is on offer.

Laura Watts, who runs the family-owned business, said: "Our usual customers are large companies that buy in bulk, which means we find ourselves with fabrics in quantities that are too small for commercial buyers but ideal for upholsterers, dressmakers, sewing enthusiasts, tailors or crafters.

"We’ve had a lot of people ask whether we have any fabrics available to buy in smaller quantities, so we decided to give the shop a try.

"There’ll be hundreds of fabrics to choose from - from pure wool tweeds, tartans and wool blends to synthetics and finished products, such as throws and cushions - and we’d love to see them in the hands of creative people!"

Laura added that she hopes the pop-up shop can become a regular event.

She said: "There are so many talented people and companies in Yorkshire committed to local sourcing, and I’d love to make this a regular occurrence to serve this market, or even open our own permanent mill shop."

The May 26 shop will be open from 10am to 2pm.