THE Darwen Crafters are hoping to renovate an old tram shed in the centre of the town and make it their new base.

The group, which encourages people in Darwen to take part in crafts, and organises trips around East Lancashire, wants a permanent base in the town centre.

At the moment, all activities are run from the home of group member Susan Coughlin, in Tudor Close.

The tram shed, off Belgrave Square, belongs to Capita and is one of two that have not been used for some years.

The group are waiting to hear the result of a grant request to Blackburn with Darwen Council which would cover the first six months' rent before they move forward with plans for renovation.

Susan Coughlin said: "It's a waiting game now.A lot of people are excited about the project and I have a lot of fantastic people pushing me on.

"The shed has room for a seating area at the back, so people could come and watch the world go by if they wished.

"The shed next door has been let to a lady doing crafts, so we hope to work with her as well."