Robinson's mini-department store opens its doors in Alnwick's former Glendale Paints after major refurbishment

Robinson’s has opened in the former Glendale Paints unit on Bondgate Within.

Businesswoman Julie Robibnson decided to bring her three shops – The Emporium, Boutique Ravello and Shoe Jungle – under one roof.

Shoppers were welcomed to the new store on Saturday with Champagne and a number of special giveaways.

Mayor Lynda Wearn said: “Robinson's is a great asset to the town and we are grateful to Julie for bringing her three shops into one wonderful space, selling a very classy range of women's clothing and accessories.

“I wish Julie and staff very best wishes for the future."

Over the past few weeks, a major restoration project has taken place to get it ready a week ahead of the original scheduled opening date.

“I hope it will be a real destination point, helping to put Alnwick on the map,” said Julie. “I also hope it will be more convenient for shoppers who have a little less time these days.”

It was 2011 when Julie, then 26, decided on a major career change.

After nine years working in the building trade selling anything from sand and cement to doors and bathrooms she decided to open The Emporium, which specialises in fashion and gift products.

For seven years it was on Bondgate Without but two years ago moved to Narrowgate.

In 2014 Boutique Ravello launched and specialised in ladies clothing. Currently in the Market Place, it was previously on Narrowgate for four years.

She also had a Morpeth branch of the shop for 18 months until she decided to wanted to focus on her home town.

That also coincided with the opening of Shoe Jungle on Fenkle Street last July, specialising in premium ladies footwear.

Now 34, Julie said: “I had a five year plan for the future which was to put all three stores into one but due to circumstances in my favour was able to bring that plan forward.”