The short-lived Caramelle coffee shop is currently being refitted by regional clothing boutique Mistral. The small chain operates in Marlborough and Hungerford, and is in good company in Bartholomew Street, where Laura Ashley, Naseby Collection and Tiger Tiger have made a success.

Meanwhile, the former petshop in Market Place, which closed during the six-month renovation last year, is also to reopen as an upmarket fashion shop. The name is under wraps at the moment, but the move goes against West Berkshire Council's Vision 2025, which wants food and drink outlets in the Market Place.

Elsewhere, work is underway to turn the former Bewise shop, once a B&Q store, into discount pub Varsity. As previously revealed on newbury.net, the giant pub will include Sky Sports and french doors like nearby Gordons Bar.

Following hot on the heels of a successful Subway franchise in Thatcham, local entrepreneur Darren Chadwick is set to open a new franchise in the Kennet Centre. Fitting out is already taking place and Darren expects to open for business in about 2 weeks time.