A NEW independent retailer is opening on Halstead High Street.

Willow and Grey is set to open on October 28, but will host a launch night with a host of special offers for potential customers on the Thursday before.

Sevil Blacklaws, of Colchester Road, is opening her first business where The Quinteassential Tea Shop previously stood.

She said: “I am really looking forward to it now.

"The launch night is just a relaxing evening to get people in the door and show them what we are about.

“The reaction I have had is incredible, I am over the moon.

“Everyone has been really supportive, people are constantly walking past asking when we are opening and showing interest.”

The first time business owner is hoping to follow in the footsteps of one of the town’s former retailers, Evans, which closed in 2012 after 37 years in the town.

As well as furniture and homeware, the shop will specialise in luxury invitations and paper goods.

The launch night will run from 7pm to 9pm with a ribbon being cut at 7pm.

Everyone who attends will get ten per cent off anything in the shop. Mrs Blacklaws is also offering two winners a £50 gift card to collect on opening night, by sharing and helping to promote the business.

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