AN INDEPENDENT gift shop in Andover has celebrated 20 years of serving residents in the town.

Mooch, in Bridge Street, was opened by Georgina Roberts in 2004 who chose to start her own business after spending a number of years working in retail.

Georgina previously studied art at St Martin's College in London but discovered it 'wasn't really for her' as she 'wanted to be a bit more involved with people'.

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Georgina from MoochGeorgina from Mooch (Image: Andover BID)

She opened Sunflower in 1996, a shop selling candles and other items with a 'hippie vibe' in the same location as Mooch before the shop was rebranded in the early 2000s to change the look of the store.

The shop has garnered a reputation in the area for its seasonal window displays.

The creative displays, designed by the staff, have included tinsel, snowflakes, lights, gonks, fake snow and more which has won the shop best Christmas window in Andover at least four times.

The stationary store, which offers a range of products including Jellycat toys, candles, clothes, fashion jewellery, and more, doesn't just decorate for Christmas, with the shop recently having installed its Halloween display complete with pumpkins, bats, and haunted trees.

Georgina said she 'couldn't believe' that the business had reached its 20th anniversary, adding: "We couldn't have done it without the support of our fabulous customers and more importantly my fabulous staff.

"They're all very creative and they're great with the customers."

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Reacting to the shop's anniversary, residents have praised Mooch for its inclusive store with 'something for everyone'.

One said: "Well done, the staff are always pleasant and I have bought various gifts over those 20 years."

Another added: "Love Mooch, such interesting window displays and always a warm reception in the shop. Best shop in Andover."

A third said: "Congratulations Mooch! A firm favourite in our house for everyone's birthday presents and treats for at least 16 of those years."

To celebrate the milestone, the shop held a 20 per cent off sale for customers on Friday, September 20 and Saturday, September 21. 

Georgina added: "Come and see all the wonderful things that we've got for sale!"