Somethings happening!

At long last, something is happening to the old Joules wine shop in the High Street. It traded for a while as Victoria Wine and then as a Sue Ryder charity shop but it's been empty now for many years. There have been numerous rumours about new tenants over the years but it has always been said that no-one would take it on because the roof was in such a state.

So it's great news to now see the building clad in scaffolding and to see that the contractors hard at work are - yes, you've guessed it - roofing contractors!

There are, of course, several rumours flying around the town as to who will be taking up occupancy once the repairs have been carried out. I'm sure the suggestion of an Anne Summers shop is being put about by the same person who told us about the lap dancing club that was about to open in Stone some years ago! My money is on the other name that is doing the rounds - Starbucks.

Costa Coffee has been  a great success, so it wouldn't surprise me in the least to see another coffee shop come to town. When Jan and I were in Cardiff a couple of weeks ago, every other shop seemed to be a coffee shop. They seem to create their own demand. And, contrary to some people's opinion, I don't think it would sound the 'death knell' for Custodio at the Lounge. As well as serving coffee, The Lounge is also a restaurant providing a good range of meals throughout the day and has the added advantage of being in a superb location on the Square especially in the summer. And if Cus supplies good coffee, served quickly by trained and smiling staff, he has nothing to worry about.

But then perhaps it's all a rumour! So whoever takes over the old shop, it will be good to see it occupied again. Contrary to the view of one councillor, we don't have an 'ailing' High Street and the fact that this shop could soon be open again is great news for the whole town.