A NEW ladies group has proved so popular that it sold out of memberships on its launch night.

The community interest group Pimm’s and Needles has already proved a success in Hurworth, near Darlington and Aycliffe Village and was launched at The Hub, in Barnard Castle, on Thursday.

The monthly groups were founded by Charlotte Pyrah and Donna Feeney who host events for like-minded women with everything from sewing to Laughter Yoga and Murder Mystery evenings on the menu.

And more than 120 women of all ages queued out the door at the Teesdale group which was launched with a clothes swish (swap).

Ladies could swap up to eight items and also enjoyed pimms and a selection of cake, as well as performances from vintage singer The DooWop Dollies.

Talking about the launch, Mrs Pyrah said: "It's been brilliant; we have been absolutely amazed by the massive turnout."

Mrs Pyrah also praised staff at The Hub, who had been so enthusiastic to host it.

All of the Barnard Castle's 90 places have now been filled but another group, in Northallerton is expected to be launched in November.

Search for Pimm’s & Needles on Facebook for more information.