Ladies 'Pool it' Together! (From Free Press Series)

Ladies 'Pool it' Together!

AN ALL-WOMAN line-up is due to transform an empty courtyard and open a group of independent stores to give Pontypool a welcome facelift.

In a female twist to the butcher, baker and candlestick maker model, the courtyard crew include the florist, the milliner and the manicurist. The shops, due to open in two weeks, are between Woolworths and Pretty Things and the traders are eager to make their first sales.

Retired nurse Eleanor Thomas will be running The Fashion Exchange and after 42 years on the wards and a quadruple by-pass 18 months ago, she can't wait to open the doors to her new venture.

Mrs Thomas said: "The courtyard had been empty for some time and we were concerned with what may go in there. We are really excited now and plan to decorate the whole area and we're determined to pull together - no one is going to be a one man band."

The Fashion Exchange will offer high quality fashions, many of which are designer labels at knockdown prices.

"The stock is top quality, people can get a designer ball dress for under £30," she said.

The one-stop shopping experience will include Lesley Caldecoat's The Hat Box, a hat-hire business, also soon to stock shoes and bags.

Beauty 4 U is run by Paula Haynes, who is already taking appointments for haircuts, nail extensions and eyelash perming. And Trevethin woman Vivien Lewis is 'Cuttin It' with her new hair salon.

Also, Pontnew-ynydd's popular florist Balloons and Bouquets are branching out and opening a second store in the courtyard.

"Because we are all together in the same space, a bridal party, for example will be able to come for a dress fitting, choose a hat, order their flowers and have a makeover at the same time," said Ms Caldecoat.

A number of events are already in the pipeline for the courtyard too.

"We have loads of plans," explained Mrs Thomas. "We are thinking about running fashion shows and asking the local schools to give country dancing displays.

"And I'm really looking forward to decorating the courtyard for Christmas. Whatever events we plan we want to involve the community in the Courtyard."

To book your place at the courtyard emporium venues, the women would be happy to make appointments for you.

Cuttin It, call Vivien on 761800

Balloons and Bouquets, call Leanne on 756114

Beauty 4 U call Paula on 753749

The Fashion Exchange call Eleanor on 762444

The Hat Box, call Lesley on 750719