The Threshing Barn has been part of my life since 2016 and in 2021 when Janet retired and I took over the helm, I had no doubt that this would be my future and livelihood until I also retired, it turns out that reality is slightly different to the plans we make.

You may or may not be aware that 7 years ago I was diagnosed with Breast Cancer, I was lucky and the Mastectomy, Chemo and Rads showed cancer the door.

At the time of diagnosis, I was a potter, freelance exhibition curator and event manager, I also worked for Janet at the Threshing Barn doing all the wool shows, which is how many of you will have met me. So, when Janet decided to retire from The Threshing Barn, I saw this it as an opportunity to give myself some stability and security going forward, if you ever want to visit, my new studio will be here  www.broughamhall.co.uk

Janet made running a business look effortless and enjoyable, and parts of it are, but on the whole, I have found it to be very stressful and exhausting, it’s affecting me both physically and mentally and not in a good way. If there is one thing that cancer teaches you it is that you only live once.

So, I have made the difficult decision to close The Threshing Barn, believe me when I say getting to this point has not been easy. The last show I will be attending will be Unravel in February and I will then be winding down the business with the aim to close towards the end of April.

If you have products that will still be in warranty after this or are in need of spares, don’t worry I will be putting up a list of contacts and outlets so you will easily be able to access the support you need.

I will be returning to my potter’s wheel in due course which I am looking forward to immensely; I have learnt to spin, weave and felt whilst at The Threshing Barn so will be incorporating all of these elements into my artistic endeavours going forward. I have secured a studio at the amazing Brougham Hall near Penrith, so if you are ever passing please pop in. 

It has been my pleasure too get to know you and I thank you all for your custom and support over the last few years.

Best wishes

Sara