TOWN & Countrywear has unveiled its new-look shop in Crediton High Street.

The refreshed shop, which has undergone major investment in the last few weeks, was opened by the Mayor of Crediton Cllr Frank Letch this week.

Despite the hard times encountered by many high street shops in recent years, Town & Countrywear by Mole Avon has had a presence in Crediton’s High Street for the past 24 years.

Initially conceived as a short term plan by Mole Avon to use as a clearance store for its Town & Country Stores across Devon, it quickly became a stockist for schoolwear for Queen Elizabeth’s School, giving the local community a local shopping option.

Over the years, whilst retaining and indeed growing the schoolwear side to now stocking for six schools, it evolved into more fashion orientated ladies clothing and footwear.

However, with times on the high street continuing to be challenging, Mole Avon have decided to retain the best of what was there whilst at the same time introducing more fresh brands which are not available anywhere else in Crediton and align much more to the name above the store – Town & Countrywear.

"This is a significant investment for this great little shop of ours and sales in the first week have exceeded our expectations and whilst we know that we will not be able to please everyone with the changes we have made, we have done it to ensure we provide a viable proposition with a point of difference to our Mill Street store" said Danielle Day, clothing and footwear buyer.

"We have tried to keep all the things that worked there including the schoolwear and dry cleaning service while at the same time adding a small range of men’s clothing and footwear."

"It’s the same familiar staff – Daphne, Glenys and Joan – in a newly refurbished store with some great new brands’ commented Mike Haines, Managing Director.

"We won’t get it all right and we will continue to refresh the ranges and change what we do to reflect the demand.

"There are more brands arriving this autumn so keep an eye on the window as you pass or pop in to see and chat about things.

"We are part of the local community and part of Crediton’s High Street and we believe that our continued commitment and investment in Town & Countrywear will have a positive effect for all on the High Street."