Gwen’s stamp of approval

The Stamp Pad’s owner, Gwen Fletcher (left), with staff member Julie Dawson, is delighted the shop has been nominated as one of the region’s Hidden Gems

Craft shop in running to be Hidden Gem

A GREENFIELD craft shop has been nominated as a “hidden gem”.

As part of a new awards campaign to recognise the best on Northern Rail’s network, Oldhamers have been asked to vote for their favourite local attraction, beauty spot or even great journey around the town.

Organisers say that they have been overwhelmed by nominations for The Stamp Pad in Chew Valley Road.

Irene Boothroyd, from Oldham, said the staff were friendly and that it was a “crafter’s paradise” with lots of goodies to choose from, while Debra Wattleworth commented on the beautiful and well-stocked shop being like Aladdin’s cave.

The popular shop sells a range of craft materials from rubber stamps to scrapbooks, unique gifts and home decor.

Gwen Fletcher, from Mossley, first opened two shops in Mossley back in 2003, but when the leases ran out in 2006, she decided to buy her own premises in Greenfield.

“I think I deserve to win,” she laughed.

“But honestly, I am thrilled that people have taken the time and trouble to nominate my business.

“It takes a lot of time to get up and running and sometimes advertising doesn’t quite reach the right audiences, so I am glad people appreciate what we do here.

“We’re a great team and we do work hard.”

Ian Bevan, Northern Rail managing director, said: “We want people to share these hidden gems and help them thrive.

“The Northern Rail network covers a huge area and we want to find out about the very best of what’s out there across our network so we can shout about it and let people know.

“Hidden Gems not only highlights the very best, but also helps to support communities and businesses.”

Everyone who nominates a winning hidden gem will be entered into a prize draw to win a tailor-made weekend enjoying some of the best hidden gems in the North.