THE newest addition to Malmesbury’s town centre opened its doors for the first time last weekend.

Belle and Bear Vintage took up its place on 38 Gloucester Street, replacing The Old Kit Box.

Free cocktails were handed to those in attendance for the launch on Saturday, and shoppers were met by live mannequins, music and vintage clothing to buy.

Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard: Live mannequins Sarah-Jane Worrall and Meg Mosely in the window of the new Belle & Bear shop in MalmebsuryLive mannequins Sarah-Jane Worrall and Meg Mosely in the window of the new Belle & Bear shop in Malmebsury

Live mannequins Sarah-Jane Worrall and Meg Mosely in the window of the new Belle & Bear shop in Malmebsury

There were fears the property might be turned into a residential space last year, after the owners of The Old Kit Box put in an application to have it converted, due to the business struggling.

However, the proud owner of the new shop, Bev Willis, 35, from Bradford on Avon, says she wants to make the shop a success.

Having worked as an air hostess for 12 years, she took voluntary redundancy to fulfil her dream of owning her own boutique.

“I always dreamt of owning a beautiful shop with beautiful things in,” she said.

“[The Old Kit Box] was the perfect space.”

Bev describes Belle and Bear Vintage as a “vintage concept boutique” where everything inside will be for sale – even if it’s attached to the wall.

Antique furniture, ladies’ clothing, shoes, and accessories will be on offer and Bev is looking to bring in a cosmetic range later in the year.

Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard:

Belle & Bear in Malmesbury

Art by local artists will decorate the space and Bev has licensed the premises, so shoppers will be able to pop in for a cocktail during their day out shopping and enjoy the ambience.

“If people just want to enjoy the space and chill out, they can have a cocktail or mulled wine during Christmas shopping,” she said.

“I saw a place like this in Cape Town, and thought it was a fantastic idea.”

The concept for the shop is not set in stone however, as Bev says she will change elements to suit what works best, to ensure the shop stands the test of time.

“I hope it has longevity for sure,” said Bev. “I love Malmesbury and I think it has huge potential, with new developments being built and a good, wide mix of people living here.

“I’ve never worked here but have fallen in love with the town. I think it’s a niche market.”

The shop will then be open from Wednesday to Saturday, 10am-5pm, every week.

It will be open on Sunday for special occasions and late night for some Christmas shopping days.

Bev has said she will also open the shop by appointment, so anyone can contact her to organise a time to visit outside of opening hours.

To book an appointment email info@belleandbearvintage.com or call Bev on 07482 383800.

For more information search Belle and Bear Vintage on Facebook.