Clacton's first Pop-up Shop trader Aimee Dawson has been forced to end her retailing experience early due to family illness.

Aimee, 21, opened up in Chameleon in Jackson Road selling refurbished furniture, home-crafted cushions, candles, canvas bags, and gifts in November.

She was due to continue in the shop until January 27 but has had to shut three weeks early.

Tendring District Council (TDC) which operates the shop is now preparing for the next person to take over the premises.

Sarah Candy, TDC's Cabinet Member for Regeneration, said that she wished Aimee the very best for the future.

"We hope that she found her time in the shop useful and a worthwhile experience," she said.

"Aimee has found it impossible to finish her period due to an illness in the family and we totally understand. We wish her and her family well."

TDC is still accepting applications for the next tenancy and has set a deadline of January 20 for anyone interested to make contact. The new tenant will start early next month.

The successful applicant with be able to trade rent and rates free for three months.

The overall aim is that those who trade in the Pop-up Shop will go on to open up their own shop in the District after their experience in Chameleon. They will receive support and advice from TDC's Town Centre Co-ordinator Rachel Fryer and the Federation of Small Businesses.

The scheme has attracted a great deal of interest nationally with other Councils asking for advice on how to set up similar schemes.

The Pop-Up Shop in Clacton is a direct result of on the ground regeneration activity funded by TDC.

Those interested in becoming a tenant should email rfryer@tendringdc.gov.uk or call on 01255 686149 before January 20 and an application form will be sent out to them.

12/1/12