News: Life is sweet in Rotherham town centre

The Whistle Stop Sweet Shop has become a popular hotspot in Rotherham town centre for those longing for the sweets they enjoyed in their childhood.

Based in the renovated Imperial Buildings, the shop has a huge range of quality traditional, retro and modern sweets.

The shop was opened by Kara Chapman from Swinton after she received business help and support from the Rotherham Enterprise Project, whose business coaches helped her with a business plan and marketing.

Kara said: "Originally the plan was to open up a shop at Doncaster station, hence the name The Whistle Stop Sweet Shop, but we soon realised that the help and support available to new businesses in Rotherham was outstanding.

"We felt so supported every step of the way. Thanks to the success to date and the help from the Rotherham Enterprise Project we hope to be open up our second store soon."

Kara is no stranger to sweet shops as her parents and grandparents ran similar shops as she was growing up but she never considered doing this herself until she had her son, Lewis.

"Having time off on maternity leave made me realise that I wanted to change directions and the thought of working for myself just grew and grew." Kara added.

"We've put everything into this business and my husband Tony has now joined me in the shop so it really is a family concern."

Brij Chaggar, from Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber of Commerce, one of the delivery partners of the Rotherham Enterprise Project, said: "Everyone has a favourite sweet or memories of grandparents buying them a quarter of something at the weekend and that is why The Whistle Stop Sweet Shop is already proving to be a Rotherham favourite.

"Kara had this fantastic idea and our coaches have been able to help her to turn her dream into a reality. We are always on the lookout for people with business ideas who need support and guidance."

The Rotherham Enterprise Project offers professional support for businesses and is funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF).

Rotherham Chamber website

Images: Rotherham Enterprise Project