I first visited Shepton Mallet some 17 years ago, when we moved to the West Country and we used to drive around to get to know the area better. It was during the time of the last recession and most of the small local towns were affected, with empty shops and being generally run down. Shepton was no different, but as most other places have since pulled themselves up, Shepton somehow never managed it. There are still too many empty shops. A new shopping centre has been built at the top end of the town, with the usual high street names, with generous parking facilities. You would think that this would bring more people to the town, but it doesn't seem the case. Hopefully, the new interest in the town, awaken by the new BBC television programme Back in Time, which is being filmed here, will also bring the financial support and interest in the empty shops.
You can't miss Niki's shop, Nostalgia. It occupies the prime position in the centre of the town and you are drawn to it by its brightly painted front.
I found Niki inside, a friendly lady, with a lovely smile.
Her pretty shop is full of beautiful things you don't need, but must have.
Luckily for my purse, I didn't give myself a lot of time for this visit. I came away with only a couple of small purchases, some lovely buttons for my stash and a chiffon scarf, which I already have plans for.
But I know I will be back and I wish Niki every success!
Niki also have on-line shop Nostalgia at the Stone House.
A quick visit to a charity shop resulted in another small purchase, I am sure this will be useful for embellishments.
On the way back to my car I discovered a shop with fabrics, threads, ribbons, all thing dear to me. Even more reason to come back!
This afternoon the postman brought an Australian magazine I managed to get over here, with a lovely project
by a blogging friend and a great quilt lady, Frances Leate.
