Having spent the last two years running her own trade stand at various local shows, including South of England, Hickstead and the Kent Show, Hurstpierpoint resident Linda Wood has decided to move to a permanent base. Her new shop, Charlotte Grace, selling ladies fashions, greetings cards, gifts and other items, will open at 40 High Street in Hurst on Tuesday 3rd March.

Linda and her husband Bob have lived in Hurstpierpoint for nearly 30 years, and both their children, Thomas and Nicole, attended St Lawrence and Downlands schools. They share their home with four-year-old Cavapoo ‘Floss’. She says that when the sun is shining and the crowds are out selling at shows is a great experience. However, she is looking forward to a break from erecting marquees, battling with gale force winds and getting soaked in torrential rain, which are also all part of life when selling at outdoor events.

With over ten years’ experience in retailing behind her, Linda can’t wait to bring her offering home to Hurstpierpoint. The shop, which is next door to Morleys and an easy walk from Trinity Road car park, will stock the latest ladies’ spring and summer fashions and introduce a cute range of soft toys and gifts. Not so long ago this shop traded as ‘Vanilla’ and was run by Cath Barton-Smith. Linda is indebted to Cath for all the helpful advice and tips that she has passed on.

Linda is looking forward to welcoming old friends and new to her latest venture, and all are invited to join her for some bubbly and nibbles to celebrate the opening all day on Saturday 7th March.