Fruit and veg shop Squirrel proves a hit in Seaton

Seaton's new fruit and vegetable shop Squirrel has received an "incredible" response from the community since opening doors at the end of August.

It was actually back in March when local mum-of-four Paula Smith decided she wanted to open and fruit and veg shop, but lockdown restrictions were implemented before she had the chance to get up and running.

Recognising a need for a home delivery service during this period, she set up her own website within a week and started a delivery service to support local residents, based out of Axmouth Village Hall.

Over the August Bank Holiday weekend, Paula was finally able to open her shop in Fore Street, Seaton, and speaking to Nub News this week she said the response has been great, with many travelling from out of town to browse her 100% plant-based products.

Paula - who follows a plant-based diet and is a self-confessed 'foodie' - said she was tired of having to travel out of town to find the produce she needed, and she wanted to give shoppers an alternative choice to large supermarkets.

She is passionate about supporting local, independent businesses and sources as much as possible of the produce available in Squirrel from the local area.

Haye Farm and Trill Farm supply organic fruit and vegetables, while the non-organic range is sourced largely from Devon and in keeping with the seasons.

You can also stock up your store cupboards at Squirrel, with a large selection of dried good, whole foods, herbs and spices available to buy by weight in your own reusable containers or in paper bags, as well as sweet treats, soft drinks, oat milk and sourdough breads, which should be pre-ordered to avoid disappointment.

Paula will be expanding this side of the business by opening up her back room with a wider choice of products, including environmentally-friendly cleaning products and essential oils.

Squirrel takes environmental issues seriously; the shop is a sponsor of Clean Jurassic Coast and ensures that no food goes to waste, with any leftovers being sent to Ferne Animal Sanctuary.

The shop is open at 8 Fore Street (next to the Owl & Pyramid Bookshop and opposite Hughsie's Café) from 9am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday and from 8am to 4pm on Saturdays.

For more details visit the website squirrelseaton.co.uk or find Squirrel on Facebook.