THREE former market traders have joined forces to open a shop in the Dudley's Fountain Arcade.

Soap and Stone is an independent gift shop run by John Barlow, Kelly Hartland and Alice Hartland.

The trio, who used to run the JJ’s Fossils and Minerals and Oh My Soap stalls on Dudley Market, decided to look for a shop due to costs.

Their new store, which stocks a range of salt lamps, crystals, soap and bath bombs, marble animals and much more, officially opened on Thursday (November 2).

John said: "It was costing us quite a lot on the market so we decided to have a look for a shop.

"It's worked out cheaper and it's going quite well so far, most of our customers have found us."

The shop's grand opening was attended by Dudley North MP Ian Austin and the Mayor of Dudley, Councillor Dave Tyler.

Mr Austin said: “It was great to meet owners and be there to open a new shop in the heart of Dudley.

"We need more independent and local traders and this is a great vote of confidence in the town centre.

"I’m sure I speak for everyone as I wish them the best of luck for the future."

Cllr Tyler added: “I’ve been visiting lots of businesses around Dudley as Mayor but it’s really nice to go to one which is just opening.

"I have met with lots of brilliant and innovative people running businesses in Dudley, it's a great pleasure to see the work they do and the success they are having."

Soap and Stone opens from 8.30am to 5.30pm Monday to Saturday.