A BUSINESS owner is proving she is not afraid to put her faith in Evesham as she prepares to open her new shop during the 10-week bridge closure.

Angela Hayden, of Drakes Broughton, admits to having some reservations about the timing of her new venture, but is looking forward to making the big step when she opens the Novelty Gift Shop in Evesham’s Market Place on Wednesday, October 9 And despite opening in the middle of the full closure of the Abbey Bridge, Miss Hayden is confident residents in and around Evesham will give her their backing.

“I want to let people know that I am here and to encourage people to come into Evesham,”

said Miss Hayden, who used to have a stall in Pershore’s indoor market.

“I have some reservations about opening when the bridge is closed but I don’t think the closure will have a major impact on the town.

There are still ways to get into Evesham. Admittedly it’s not ideal but I don’t think it’s going to be as catastrophic as people are saying.

”The people who shop in Evesham all the time are still going to try and get into the town. But from a retailer’s point of view it is crucial to make people aware they need to come into Evesham and support their shops.”

The shop will be selling a range of gifts including birthday bags, survival kits, mugs, cards and seasonal items ideal as presents.

Miss Hayden said: “The Market Place is great and brings a lot of life into town.”