THE Covid lockdowns inspired a businesswoman to set up her own gift shop – and she didn't have far to look for premises.

Rachel Sidgwick began with a stall at pop-up market events around Stokesley and Northallerton until Covid put a stop to that in 2020. She then turned her attention closer to her home in Swainby. Next door in fact, where the tiny old schoolroom was empty and looking rather sad.

As a little girl, Rachel dreamed of opening her own shop just like her mother Penelope had done with a funky boutique in 1970s Linthorpe. After many years working as a shop manager for Laura Ashley in Brighton and then moving into corporate event management in London, Rachel relished a gentler pace and easier commute. She bit the bullet and secured the lease.

With help from handyman dad Terry, she gave the old place a stunning transformation. “It was a blank canvas, and I had such fun bringing so much content, colour and ambience to it," she says.

"I wanted the place to inspire a little wow factor when people came through the door. And the feedback has been really heart-warming."

The store, called 10 Good Reasons, describes itself as an "inspired gift shop" offering an eclectic range of original gift ideas at good prices. “I source every item, be they cushions, jewellery, vases or socks, that are not commonly available in this area” says Rachel. “I have many local suppliers also making quality artisan bags, baskets, candles and soaps."

The shop is open 11am to 4pm on Fridays, 10am to 5pm on Saturdays, and 10am to 3pm on Sundays at 94 High Street, Swainby, DL6 3DG.

As a showcase for her business and local crafts people, Rachel is hosting a pop-up market in Swainby Church Hall on Saturday, March 12 and Sunday, March 13 from 10am to 4pm.