Chairman of the Honiton and District Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Tony McCollum has had the pleasure of welcoming three new independent businesses into Honiton recently.

Clive Taylor of Taylors Leather Company is now up and running in Lace Walk.

Clive, who has run a similar, successful business in Taunton in Somerset decided to branch out and opened the shop in Honiton in November.

Although it is a local independent business, the store holds many of the top branded names in mens and ladies shoe wear.

Other items include bags, travel luggage, clothing and anything made of leather.

To contact Clive, phone 01404 46431, email [email protected] or visit the website www.taylorsleathercompany.co.uk.

Dean Auton of East Devon Lock and Key is now stationed at number 126 on the High Street.

Dean is a qualified locksmith by trade and specialises in domestic and commercial locks.

The shop, previously Power Shoes, also sells watch batteries and straps, engraved pet tags, household batteries, mobile phone accessories and shoe care products.

Shoes are also taken in for repair undertaken by the previous occupants.

The shop is also an agent for Ideal Dry Cleaning and laundry services of Exmouth.

Dean who has been in the locksmith trade for many years, is skilled enough to hand make keys for antique locks brought in by customers.

The contact details are 01404 47052 by phone and www.eastdevonlockandkey.co.uk for the website.