Vintage ideas to help give your home a top new look

Claire Gooch (left) and Sandra Hearn at their new shop

Two business women have travelled more than 2,500 miles across the country to find unique items for their new shop.

Claire Gooch, from Stony Stratford, and Sandra Hearn, from Sherington, have spent the past three months searching for items for their newly opened store The Nest at No.9.

And thanks to their hard work, the home furnishings store in High Street, Olney, is now full of one-off vintage items and designer goods from across the UK, including things like Newgate clocks and Bronte Tweed.

Some of the more unique pieces in store include Amish Stars, made by Amish people living in America who, when they leave their homes, cut the tin from the roof into stars which they keep for good luck.

Co-owner Sandra, 41, said the aim is to ensure customers never see the same item at the shop twice.

“We have scoured the country to find unique one-off vintage pieces and personally meet the designers who are leading the way with the most exciting and interesting contemporary style,” she said.

“Having both worked in management at John Lewis, we both wanted to bring something different to the area - something which can’t be bought from normal department stores.”

On their travels, the pair visited a variety of designers, factories and antique fayres in places like Cumbria, Brighton andWales, where they spent time meeting suppliers.

Mrs Hearn added: “We even found a family company in Wales who make items for the likes of Laura Ashley.”

The shop was opened by Great Linford Masterchef contestant James Perry on May 13.