“TWO pints, a packet of crisps...and some sequins, please.”

It might sound an unusual order at the bar, but one Colchester pub has come up with a crafty solution to pull in the punters.

Pub customers are now gathering for a Sunday afternoon of stitching, sticking and knitting over a drink at the Odd One Out in Mersea Road.

The Crafty Club was set up by Liz Cardy and her friends.

Liz, 38, said: “I used to do lots of crafts myself, but fell out of the habit and wanted to get back into it.

“I was talking to a few friends who were having similar thoughts and we decided to make an event of it.

“It’s a lovely way to spend some time with the girls, doing some crafts while having a natter and a drink.

“We normally have a theme. We all made mittens last time, but if people just want to hang out and do their own thing then that’s fine.”

Liz, who lives in Rowhedge, said the sessions helped members to cope with the recession, by building on the resurgent interest in “make do and mend”, with people feeling the pinch. They also helped the pub, by bringing in extra customers.

She said: “It’s a such a special pub. It’s like stepping back in time to come here.

“Pubs are having a difficult time at the moment and if we can help get more people into this one then that’s great.”

Landlady Bridget Parrick said: “We’ve always been happy for people to use our back room for clubs and events, as long as they buy a drink.

“They’re a lovely bunch and it’d be great to have more people involved.”

The next Crafty Club is on April 18, between 2pm and 5pm.

For more information, call Liz on 01206 728873 or e-mail bettylovesdisco@hotmail.co.uk