A TALENTED Amblecote sculptor has turned to online sales to keep his business running during lockdown.

Neil Harris has been crafting and selling one-of-a-kind dog figurines for more than 20 years, but when events like craft fairs and dog shows were cancelled due to the Covid pandemic, he had to turn to online sales instead.

Neil began his long career in the Stourbridge glass industry, working at all of the area's famous glassworks like Thomas Webb & Sons, Royal Brierley and Stuart Crystal, before setting up independently when the last of them closed.

He said: "When Covid hit I became seriously worried about the future viability of the business.

"E-commerce sites like Etsy have been a lifeline as they let me connect with customers who wouldn't otherwise get to see my work."

Neil's son James, also an artist, now looks after the online side of his dad's business - and has now started learning his craft so he can follow in his father's footsteps.

He said: "Shopping habits changed in lockdown, maybe permanently, and it's now possible to be an artist and sell entirely online.

"I'd love to be able to continue doing what dad does and help keep the region's glass heritage alive."

For more on Neil's work and the family business visit nharrisandson.com.