A much-loved local shop has reopened in Edwards Walk, Maldon, following the previous owners' retirement after 46 years.

Having undergone extensive renovation, Upstairs Downstairs officially welcomed customers yesterday morning (July 22). The new owners, Rachel and Ian Harrison, were keen to show off their range of new stock, while also keeping some of the old favourites.

Left to right: Councillor Michael Pearlman, Ian Harrison, Rachel Harrison, and Town Mayor Andrew Lay. (Photo: Ben Shahrabi)

Maldon Town Mayor Councillor Andrew Lay cut the ribbon and declared the store 'officially' open, joined by town councillor Michael Pearlman.

Ian and Rachel purchased Upstairs Downstairs when the previous owners, Andrew and Gill Wilson, retired last year. The couple also own Templeman Opticians [LINK TO UP CLOSE], just metres up the road from their latest venture.

Andrew and Gill Wilson handed the keys over to Ian and Rachel Harrison in April last year.

At the grand reopening, Rachel told Nub News: "Andrew and Gill were patients at our opticians, and we were talking to them about wanting to retire.

"I thought it would be so sad for a shop that's been around for so long to go, and with such a good reputation and customer base."

Opticians by trade, this is the first time the couple have owned a business like Upstairs Downstairs.

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Rachel said: "It was a massive challenge for us, venturing into something new. I approached my friend Jenny Black and asked her if she would like to support us.

"All the staff have worked really hard to get the shop looking so amazing."

Rachel with store manager Jenny black, beside a mural by designer Avalana. (Photo: Ben Shahrabi)

Jenny, who has been appointed to manage the store, told Nub News: "We've been pretty much flat out since February – ordering stock, sorting out what products to sell and deciding how the shop's going to look."

The updated Upstairs Downstairs stocks designer bedding from Jack Wills, Avalana, and Cath Kidston, along with classic goods from Charlie Bears, Jellycat and Wrendale, all of which will be familiar to regular customers.

The interior of the store has been opened-up, providing a much more spacious atmosphere. There is a seating area in front of a colourful mural by textile designer Avalana, whose products are also sold at John Lewis.

Ian and Rachel hope the shop will attract new clientele while maintaining the loyal customer base Andrew and Gill built during their nearly half a century at the helm.