A FASHION lover who sells her wares in Stockbridge is celebrating three decades in business.

Gaynor Luckett, who runs Gaynor's in the town's High Street, started in Andover 30 years ago with no training or experience in the trade.

Miss Luckett, of Grately, said: "I was totally naïve, business-wise. I went up to London and found the stock houses, wholesalers and designers. I walked in, saw something I liked and asked Will you sell me some?' "Over the years I've bought a bizarre mixture of outfits. I needed to find designers with whom I had a rapport.

"Above all, when I was buying stock for the shop I had to like it myself. That's still true today.

"I love this job. It's all about building relationships with people. It's not just about selling a frock."

Although her shop has been in Stockbridge for 16 years, Miss Luckett still has regulars who have shopped with her since she first opened in Andover.

She said she loved Stockbridge: "It encompasses everything I feel happy with. It's not too big, it's in the countryside, it has a lovely ethos and the residents are very nice.

"It's warm and friendly here. Stockbridge has lots of character and many of the shopkeepers are like me - they have a passion for what they're doing."

Miss Luckett also praised her staff.

"I couldn't have done it if it weren't for my group of girls. Theyve been brilliant," she said.

3:30pm Wednesday 2nd April 2008

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