
Hill Street
Lorena runs Red Barn Creative www.redbarncreative.org.uk a not-for-profit organisation running social media workshops and creative classes
Having mentioned Market Street last time, I must apologise for missing out businesses. There are a number of health and beauty shops like hairdressers, nail bars and tanning salons in town, and that includes Market Street. So next time you pop down there, take a look at all it has to offer. There are similar places on Hill Street, and a Tattoo Parlour, the second one I’ve noticed, the other being round the corner from the market, near Beale’s. I think it’s fantastic that the town can support small businesses of all kinds starting up. Independent trades was how it always used to be, and to see that idea come back, all within walking distance of public transport and free parking, is surely something we should be proud of.
Other places along Hill Street are the fabulous toy shop, it has everything you would want for toys and hobbies, traditional and modern. Then there’s the party shop to kit out your home or hired hall for all occasions; a unique gift shop; also a gallery for original art work; the barbers to get your hair cut for the party; a flower shop; then a mini supermarket and a vegetable shop for the food! Phew! I think I’m going to have to visit each one properly to find out more, as I’ve only used Brewer’s for veggies and the toy shop for gifts. For someone who wants to support local independent trades, I think I need to do better in Hill Street! Though I’m still not ready for a tattoo…
The main building in Hill Street is the Institute. It has the clock tower that now has music playing across town – have you heard it? I think that’s such an interesting asset to a community, and I enjoy listening to it, guessing the tunes. Having provided many different clubs and societies for the local population, it is coming back to life with the hard work of volunteers to again provide a place to go and enjoy learning. If you’d like to know more, pop along and check out the noticeboard. You could also hire it for that event you’ll be going to with your new nails, new haircut, gifts, party decorations and tattoo!