The group was formed originally as Durham Clayport Matters in 2003 by Elsie Shaw and a group of enthusiasts and developed under the tutelage of Heather Ritchie at Clayport Library. Evolving into a self-help group the membership gradually expanded from that time. Eventually, the group became so popular that a second venue was set up at Bowburn Community Centre and members continue to meet at both sites,
As well as meeting at a social level, the members, who are all volunteers, also attend local public events, giving demonstrations and taster sessions. Members have also been invited into schools to introduce and demonstrate the crafts to children as part of their National Curriculum. Sessions have also been held at Heritage Centres to illustrate techniques used by our ancestors.
In addition to hooking and progging, members have a variety of other crafting talents and as a result activities have now expanded into other areas of crafting. A number of workshops have now been held including weaving, braiding, dry and wet felting and peglooming. Further workshops will be arranged according to the wishes of members.
