Local haberdashery Really Maria on Lordship Lane has been named Highly Commended Independent Craft Retailer of the Year at a recent ceremony held at the NEC in Birmingham.

The awards, organised by Craft Business magazine, are the biggest and most respected in the crafting industry.

Really Maria, which has been open since August 2016, will be celebrating this success at a special event this Saturday, as part of National Yarn Shop Day.  Launched in 2014 by Let’s Knit magazine, along with its sister title LGC Knitting & Crochet, Yarn Shop Day is the biggest retailer event in the knitting and crochet industry. Its aim is to help bricks-and-mortar stores by encouraging yarn lovers all over the UK and the Republic of Ireland to visit their local store and discover the great things it can offer, while at the same time enjoying a day of treats, fun and meeting like-minded crafters!

Yarn Shop Day – Saturday 27th April

The shop will host special guests for a day of family activities this Saturday, with free goodie bags and workshops and a 10% discount on all products.

Guests include James McIntosh, author of ‘Knit and Nibble’ and Christine Leech, author of ‘Pompomania’ who will both be signing copies of their books.

Maria Sammur said: “This year has been absolutely amazing for our little haberdashery shop as we won Highly Commended in the National Best Independent Craft Retailers Awards 2019! Please come and visit the ‘Best Haberdashery Shop’ in England and celebrate with us.”

Local councillor and avid knitter Cllr James McAsh said: “Really Maria is very much part of the fabric of our local community. It’s great to see this friendly local business win an award. I’m looking forward to cutting the ribbon at Saturday’s special event!”

Really Maria is at 15 Lordship Lane, East Dulwich: a short walk from East Dulwich train station.

The National Yarn Day celebration will run from 10am to 6pm

Meet James McIntosh, Knit and Nibble talk and Book signing will be at 12pm.