PENARTH business Glass By Design have explained how they are using the current lockdown to make some important changes. 

Angelina Hall and Cathy O’Doherty, who are based at Station Approach in the town centre, are using their closure due to the current restrictions to upgrade their studio gallery lighting.  

“No one wants to be locked down at this time, but we thought we should put this down time to positive use and give the studio lighting and electrics a long overdue overhaul,” Ms Hall said.  

“It has meant we have had to pack away all the beautiful handmade work that we have, keeping it safe whilst the work is carried out for us.  

“It has been a mammoth job, and we hate seeing the studio gallery empty, but know that we will see a huge improvement once the job is done and we are allowed to open and welcome our customers back.” 

In order to be able to continue selling, the pair have been busy photographing all their stock and have now launched a new online e-commerce site.

Penarth Times: Angelina (left) and CathyAngelina (left) and Cathy  

Ms O’Doherty added: “We had never envisaged having an online shop when we launched the business. The last few months have shown us that unless we developed this side of the business, we would be left behind. 

“Unfortunately, this may not necessarily be the last lockdown, and many people are now preferring to shop on-line, so now it is possible to buy all our beautiful Welsh handmade items from the comfort of your own home and either click and collect or have them delivered to your door. 

“Whether you just want to cheer yourself up, have a birthday or anniversary gift to get, you are now able to still buy from a local independent and know that you are helping to keep your high street alive.” 

You can check out the new site at www.glassbydesignonline.co.uk.