What is your favourite shop in Lewes? I’m a big fan of Cliffe Gallery Antiques on Cliffe High St, whilst Justin could spend all day in the A&E Cummings bookshop just down from the bottleneck.
What sort of business do you think Lewes needs to attract? More independents including a high quality bakers and patisserie.
Would a redeveloped Phoenix area be good for the town? It depends on the set up. Lewes needs affordable housing and workshops, but if the payback is multiples destroying the town’s character, the price would be too high. Also, if you want that, Brighton’s only around the corner…
What do you think about the idea of pedestrianising the centre of Lewes? The access and parking need to be arranged first. It would be great to clear the traffic off Station St and Fisher St but I’m not sure anyone’s proposing that, are they?
Could you do anything to make your business greener? Our lemel (spare metal) is all recycled. We operate two businesses out of one space and we also rent out bench space to other jewellers. On the jewellery side, we’ve a range made from recycled Afghan television screens.
Any expansion plans? Space-wise we are fine. Business-wise we’re expanding all the time, whilst the website brings in a lot of interest from The states.
Is there anything you always get asked? “Do you do watch straps and batteries?” (The answer to both is no by the way).
What’s your top tip for our readers? Put two tablespoons of cocoa powder in your chilli.