ALTON town mayor Graham Titterington has officially opened Alton Creatives Emporium.

Now home to four creative entrepreneurs, the emporium offers the chance for people to buy unique art, crafts and personalised wares,

The initiative, set up by Alton Town Council, provides the opportunity for local creatives to try out small business concepts without the large financial barrier usually associated with trading in a town centre. If businesses are successful, they can be nurtured to progress to opening their own shop.

“From one business before Christmas 2020 to a full complement by April 2021, we are delighted to go live with four unique businesses in the Alton Creatives Emporium,” said Wendy Simson, finance officer at Alton Town Council.

“It just goes to show the resilient, creative and entrepreneurial spirit of the town that during lockdown, these businesses have developed their propositions and readied the store for launch, all while following strict Covid guidelines.

“We wish them – and, indeed, all our local businesses – every good wish this week as the town reopens.”

The first four businesses housed at the emporium, which opened on Thursday, April 15, are Mama Makes Crafts, Printy Banana, E19 and Glass by Angela-Jane.

Alton Creatives Emporium at 16 Market Square is open from 10am and 6pm all week.