The women quickly started to run classes locally for other women and children, passing on the skill of lace-making. In 1908, their efforts were even mentioned in an article in ‘Needlework Monthly’. The next year, Mrs Robinson was asked to take over the local lace industry altogether.
Mrs Robinson was motivated to preserve old skills and to provide opportunities for women and children in the Downton area to earn money in their own homes.
Lace-making continues in the area today and remains an important part of local trade history.