PORTHMADOG residents have been driven potty by the appearance of a strange contraption on one of their streets.

Last week, shoppers were puzzled by a strange looking piece of kit on the road at Bank Place.

It was then revealed to be a new kiln for Glosters who are expanding their pottery business in the town and hoping to employ more staff.

Myfanwy Gloster said: “The new kiln was specially made for us in Stoke on Trent – it is much bigger than the one we have now and will enable us to double our production.

“The kiln arrived this week and raised a few eyebrows when it was delivered outside the shop.

“It’s now safely in place and working well.”

The Porthmadog business has gone from strength to strength in recent years.

Glosters pottery also supplies businesses in London like Bryn Williams’ Odettes restaurant.

Tom Gloster added: “ There in a strong pottery tradition in Porthmadog and I am pleased to build on that.

“This new kiln will mean that we can expand the business further and hopefully employ more potters in the ceramics workshop.”