Dr Who lovers make use of new craft hub

STAND-OFF . . . Volunteer ghostbuster Tony Goacher takes on a Dalek at the Digital Enterprise Hub pop-up event

BOB the Dalek didn't exterminate any shoppers when he visited Tommyfield Market Hall at the weekend.

Dr Who's nemesis was among the attractions at a pop-up shop on Saturday to raise awareness of Oldham's new Digital Enterprise Hub.

The hub will open in Yorkshire Street in the Spring and include the regions's biggest high-street "makerspace", where people can use specialist equipment such as 3D printers, laser-cutters and embroidery machines.

This space will be home to Hack Oldham, a group of people of all ages who enjoy making and tinkering with things. There will also be a range of workshops for children and adults.

The hub will also have desks for businesses to rent and start-up support for new businesses.

Lots of items were in display at the shop to give people a flavour of some of the things they could create. These ranged from the remote-controlled dalek, a Ghostbuster proton pack and a piano made out of a lime and bananas to mosaics and textiles.

Andy Powell, founder of Hack Oldham, which is currently based in Hardcastle Street ahead of the move, said: "Our guiding principle is to enable people to do things. We want to help people become creators rather than just consumers.

Hack Oldham's regulars range from children to people in their 60s and Mr Powell added: "Whether it's creating a radio controlled Dalek, making a 3D-printed Ghostbusters proton pack, joining a coding class or attending our digital drop in centre to learn how to fix your PC, there's something for everyone

"It's a collaborative, friendly space and I'd especially encourage any freelancer or small business out there looking for co-working space to get in touch."

The hub is supported by Oldham Council and council leader Jean Stretton said: "Having a large makerspace on our high street shows how Oldham is embracing technology and creativity to give people the skills and confidence to try new things.

"We know that makerspaces can help foster grassroots innovation and entrepreneurship and Hack Oldham has already given people the tools they need to set up their own businesses."

The shop opens on Saturdays.