A NEW business is aiming to knit together frayed nerves and patch up troubled minds - as well as promoting a rewarding pastime.

In2stitches, which has opened its doors in Hartlepool Enterprise Centre in Brougham Terrace, stocks a wide variety of needlecraft and haberdashery items, ranging from knitting wools to tapestry and embroidery threads.

But the firm - which has been set up by former mental health nurses and long-time friends Val Abbey and Linda Archer - also aims to provide an even more valuable service to the local community.

"We are looking to start knit and natter groups to enable people with an interest in needlework to come together and make new friends," said 53-year-old Mrs Abbey, who lives in Hartlepool.

"We both have experience in teaching and education, so we will also be running needlework classes for both beginners and the more experienced.

"Needlework is very relaxing, improves your concentration and builds confidence. As qualified mental health nurses, we are also planning to use needlecraft sessions to enable people to rebuild their self-esteem after stressful experiences and depression."

Ms Archer, who is also 53, added: "We would particularly welcome enquiries from women who have been through social difficulties, such as those who have spent time in a women's refuge or perhaps become a bit isolated through caring for a poorly family member.

"We also hope to be able to offer some work experience, in a voluntary or part-time capacity - again to help people build up their confidence."

In setting up their new firm, the duo received a £500 grant towards the cost of promotional leaflets, adverts, business cards and letterheads from Hartlepool Council's women's development fund.

In2stitches is open 10am to 5pm Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, and also has a stall in the Thursday Outdoor Market in Hartlepool town centre. It can be contacted on 01429-268800.

For more information about the women's development fund call Vanda Capaldi on 01429-523513