A WINSFORD seamstress has gone from voluntary needlework to thriving business, boasting a Hollywood wardrobed-sized collection of eye-catching period outfits.

Jackie Phillips’ Cloak’d and Dagger’d enterprise turns out all manner of costumes – from Roman tunics and regency regalia, to medieval gowns and First World War uniforms.

Her latest handiwork can be worn in Weaver Hall Museum, where visitors can be transported to the spirit of the age by trying on her Victorian workhouse attire.

But while some of Jackie’s bespoke costumes now command fees of over £1,000, the Winsford seamstress admits to falling into the job more than 20 years ago.

“It was never a conscious decision,” she explained. “I was studying at the Welsh College of Music in Cardiff when I began chatting to a stage manager in the photo copying room.

“She needed people to help out a production of the Beggar’s Opera. Their opening night was fast approaching and when she found out I could sew, I was led by the elbow to the costume department.

“I ended up really enjoying it. I was trying to do my finals at the time, and it was a good way to unwind from all that.”

Further productions of Billy and Calamity Jane followed, before Jackie founded her business in Bristol in 2003.

“I got talked into doing costumes for a wedding. All my friends were saying: ‘why don’t you do this full time?’ and three months later I was,” added the 40-year-old, who moved to Winsford in 2006.

Things took off when she exhibited at the National Living History Fair, where her handiwork caught the eye of numerous historical re-enactment societies.

Now she creates costumes for almost every era, recently helping bring to life the little-known history of Emmeline Pankhurst’s Jujitsu bodyguards.

“I get all sorts of commissions. The longest took four days and was for a man’s full regency outfit. The most expensive was for Stamford’s town crier in Lincolnshire, which cost £1,700.

“It’s an interesting job. I get to meet lots of different people, but there are some commissions I’ve had to politely decline,” said Jackie – recalling a man who was left wanting for his adult-sized baby grow.

Find out more at cloakedanddaggered.com