New mum's business is going sew well

A MUM who was told she was 'mad' is now making clothes for the children of celebrities.

- By JAMIE GREER

Rachel Griffiths, 34, who lives in Halewood, runs Pens & Needles.

Rachel makes embroidered children's clothing, including little jumpers, cardigans and blankets with unique designs.

She started the business shortly after giving birth to her son Mason, who will turn two this August.

She is now preparing to open her own shop at The Barnyards, a collection of independent small businesses in Widnes.

Rachel runs the business alongside her main job in social housing but hopes she can turn Pens & Needles into a full-time role.

Rachel said: "I started Pens & Needles while I was on maternity leave. I've always had an artistic bug in me. My nan had taught me how to sew.

"But I fell into a career in social housing, which isn't very artistic at all.