A HOME accessories company, which started life as a former police sergeant’s hobby, is beating the recession after signing up scores of new stockists in the past month.

Pins and Ribbons, in Eaglescliffe, near Yarm, has signed-up 45 UK stockists since the start of last month, as well as launching a range of pet-friendly products.

The company, was formed in 2006 by mother-of-two Kerrie Murray, 33, who started by making products at her kitchen table and selling them on eBay.

She now employs three people at a unit on the Allens West Industrial Estate, in Eaglescliffe, and customers include blue-chip department stores such as Fenwicks and Fortnum and Mason.

The company provides a range of hand-made items from bedding, curtains, head boards and wedding accessories to door stops, peg bags, cushions, bunting, wall hangings and draught excluders.

Ms Murray, a former police sergeant, said: “Our philosophy is that providing highquality products and listening to the views of our customers is central to our success.

“Despite the current economic climate and the fact that many businesses are choosing to move production overseas for cheap labour and increased profit, Pins and Ribbons remains true to its Handmade in England roots.

“One of our major selling points is that all of our products are made in this country using, where possible, UK produced fabrics.

“The fact that we don’t outsource abroad, coupled with our policy on being eco-friendly and recycling everything from packaging to scrap materials, is bringing in plenty of orders and has also scooped us a number of Oliver Heath eco awards.”

The company has now moved into the animal market with a range of pet beds.

Ms Murray said: “As a home and animal lover, I always go the extra mile to buy something special for my house and something special for my dogs.

“To meet customer demand we’ve brought out two different design options – a shaped soft pet bed with padded sides and a square floor cushion.”

The company’s growth has been helped by the introduction of its own website in 2007.

Further details are available at.pinsandribbons.co.uk