MALDON businesswoman Allison Gray re-opened her popular boutique at a new High Street location today - and announced the return of Fiver Fest next month.

Willow & Fox was officially opened in the new premises in Edward's Walk in High Street, Maldon, by new Town Mayor, Councillor David Ogg, this morning (Saturday, 15 May). You can scroll through some pictures of the opening here.

The beautiful shop, filled with fashion, accessories, gifts and more, replaces Allison's former boutique in Quest Place - which she had been unable to re-open on 12 April when pandemic restrictions lifted.

Now Allison, who is Chair of Maldon Business Board, is looking forward to a fresh start in her new shop as the town centre's businesses continue on the journey out of lockdown - with plenty planned for the summer ahead.

Allison said: "Following two national lockdowns and a flood in my shop from the flat above just two weeks before I was due to re-open along with other high street businesses on 12 April, I am finally extremely excited to be back open in a new location at 30 High Street, Maldon next to Maldon Coffee at the entrance to Edward's Walk.

"Having always had a career in the corporate world in London, starting a business in retail was a completely new challenge for me. The original shop in Quest Place was a fantastic place for a start up business but the success of Willow & Fox has allowed me to venture up to a more prominent location in the High Street.

"I love Maldon and to live and work here is a dream come true. We have such a fantastic network of small independent businesses and to see everyone bounce back after lockdown is testament to the hard work we all put in. We have lots of plans for the High Street and Fiver Fest returns on 12 to 26 June.

"I can't wait to welcome old and new customers back to Willow & Fox and have my doors open once again."