A SHOP which takes customers back in time has launched a new chapter in its history.

When businesses classed as ‘non-essential’ by the Government were allowed to reopen their doors on June 15, Ten Green Bottles Vintage, in Hexham’s Market Place, was not among them.

Independent businessman David Ord wanted to wait a bit longer before relaunching the venture he originally began back in 2014.

“We opened the doors again on July 4,” he said. “It was all about preference and we just needed a little more time before we were ready to go.”

For David, it hasn’t just been a case of adapting his business to meet government guidelines regarding the coronavirus pandemic.

He’s also used the shutdown period as an opportunity to refurbish his shop, which now occupies three floors of the premises.

“There’s been a lot to think about,” he added, “from social distancing measures and hand sanitiser, to perspex at the counter, and cleaning the hand rails on the staircases.

“But I also wanted to make some general improvements. Decorating has been done, and I’ve also spent time on our product offering."

Ten Green Bottles Vintage is a labour of love for David. A wide range of unique items and gifts include original vintage clothing, including tweed jackets and headwear, as well as suitcases and other accessories.

David also restores record players, and is very much a specialist when it comes to the Pye line of machines of the 1950s and 60s. From the legendary Black Box player, to classic stereograms, he sources the originals, and refurbishes them with the support of electrician Paul Smith.

Naturally, there’s no shortage of vinyl to be found, as well as record covers which have been framed to make stylish wall hangings.

The business has steadily evolved from one room in the same premises, to three floors, over the past six years.

But David said the safety of customers was his top priority.

“There’s been a lot of interest since we reopened,” he acknowledged, “but it hasn’t just been a case of people coming through the door. I’ve been selling via Instagram, and people have been arranging to come and see an item, or items, they are interested in.

“I think people are a lot more cautious about how they approach shopping. That’s understandable. We are fully open, but we have adapted, and want to help people to shop in a way that’s comfortable for them.”