A NEW community workspace for ‘avid tinkerers’ will be officially opened by Otley’s MP.

The Maker Space has been created at Otley Courthouse - by converting the former Citizens Advice block - to help people explore their creative and technical sides.

The building has been fitted with a host of equipment including woodworking benches, a 3D printer, sewing machines electronics, soldering tools and more.

The Maker Space has been operational since late 2018 and local scientist Dr Marty Jopson recently used it to put the finishing touches to a puzzle prop that featured on the BBC’s The One Show.

Dr Jopson, who is one of the driving forces behind Otley Science Festival, said: “If you are an avid tinkerer, passionate crafter, creative genius or someone who just likes to ‘make’, this is the place for you!”

The venue will be declared officially open on Sunday, February 24 by MP Alex Sobel (Lab, Leeds North West).

He said: “I am delighted to be opening the Maker Space. It is such an exciting addition for the people of Otley, blending creativity with traditional and high-tech skills.”

Expanding on the Maker Space’s role, Courthouse Chair David Robson said: “The idea is to have as many tools as possible to help people make things.

“There are about 100 ‘maker spaces’ in the country which are all slightly different but based on a similar model.

“For us this offers something on the more technical, craft side of things. For a town like Otley we’re hoping it will have quite a big impact.”

The opening event runs from 10am to 2pm - the ribbon-cutting is at 10.15am - when there will be a chance to learn how to sew a hanky case, make a 3D printed keyring, and have a go at soldering.

Attendees will also be invited to play a part in creating a stained-glass Otley Maker Space sign.

Dr Jopson is encouraging anyone interested to get involved. He said: “The simplest thing is to come along to the opening or to an open session on either the last Thursday evening, or Saturday evening, of each month. The open sessions are free to attend and are a chance for the makers to get together for a chat and to welcome new members.”