A taste of Poland has come to the Gwent Valleys - and is proving a big hit with the whole community.

Joanna Koperska has recently opened the Poland Bach store in Abertillery, stocking food and drink from Poland. Already the shop is catering for a wide range of customers enjoying traditional Polish fare.

“The shop only opened before Christmas and already we have a good customer base,” said Joanna.

“There is a substantial Polish community in the area. Also many of our clients are people who haven’t tried Polish food before and they are finding they enjoy it.”

The shop was awarded a Kickstart grant of £1,975 which enabled Joanna to buy display cabinets and other equipment. The Kickstart programme is run jointly by Tata Steel subsidiary UK Steel Enterprise and Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council. It provides grants and loans to local entrepreneurs wishing to launch their own businesses.

Poland Bach has created two jobs and it is hoped that more will follow.

Glyn Thomas, of UK Steel Enterprise, said: "It is excellent to see a new business setting up in the town and providing a service to the local community.”

Sarah Jeremiah, of Blaenau Gwent Council, said: “Joanna and her team have worked hard to create a new and welcoming shopping experience in Abertillery and it has been rewarding to be part of this successful Kick Start process.”