Helen Sprott

I don't often have the chance to stop here for a browse through the wonderful array of goods but wandered along after a visit to the dentist. (C, this is where your blue pharmaceutical glass came from).

Despite suffering from MS Helen sets out her stock, stored behind the shutters and inside the shop or her trademark van, and sits in her shop doorway with her companion dog (?Border Terrier), ready for custom or for a natter with the passers by. We spent some time putting the world to rights this afternoon.

She opened the shop in 1968 (to the horror of her mother - 'going into trade' - it just wasn't done), to support herself and family after losing her job as a Clinical Pharmacologist, and initially stocked it with articles from the family home. She is also generous with her time, sharing her extensive knowledge of antiques at various meetings - I recall the time she came to our church Tuesday Group and valued our treasures.

Helen kindly agreed to allow me to photograph and blip the shop on condition that she could not be seen (she is hiding behind the brass coal scuttle) but welcomes visits in person, so go along, treat yourself.