THE OWNER of a gift shop near the former Wilkos store in Halesowen is appealing for shoppers to support businesses in that end of town after its closure.

Footfall has dropped dramatically in the Hagley Street area since Wilkos closed on September 26.

Stella Weston, owner of Bella's on Summer Hill, just up from the former Wilkos, is calling on shoppers not to forget to visit the numerous small businesses at that end of the town.

Bella's sells gifts, crafts, crystals, bath bombs, candle melts and there is space to sit inside and enjoy cakes, brownies and hot drinks.

Halesowen News: People can enjoy a cuppa, a cake and a chat at the shop People can enjoy a cuppa, a cake and a chat at the shop (Image: Handout)

There are a handful of other stores nearby including Fish & Chips Halesowen, Simply Sausages takeaway, Cupcake Daze.

Mum-of-five Stella, aged 43, said: "A lot of shops up this end are feeling the effect of the loss of Wilko. We have noticed how quiet it is.

"It will be hard until it is filled.

"We really need shoppers' support at this end of the town."

Stella said she is working really hard on promoting the shop on its Facebook page, which is called Bella's Beautiful Things to ensure business is steady. 

She is also holding craft workshops and community events including a recent talk on the menopause run by staff from Holland and Barratts.

Halesowen News: The shop is holding community events including a recent menopause talk The shop is holding community events including a recent menopause talk (Image: Handout)

The shop is a safe space for people with mental health issues as well as being age friendly.

Stella said she is grateful for the support of loyal customers who pop in every week for coffee, cake and a chat and that she would like to see the former Wilkos filled as soon as possible.

She added: "If it became a larger B&M in the town we would be jumping for joy."

The shop opened last April and was runner up in Halesowen BID awards new business of the year category.