Colin Flett is the owner/proprietor of The Rock and Fossil Shop in Durham’s Indoor Market, celebrating his fifth year in business. He lives in Newton Aycliffe and has done since 1989. On Saturday 26th May the shop will be celebrating its fifth birthday. This is something of a milestone given the current trading conditions in the retail sector.
Colin opened the shop in May 2013 having been on the Market’s waiting list, for a few months. Having graduated in Geology from Durham University he spent the previous 12 years as a geologist, working for a local company in Spennymoor.
He decided on a complete career change to indulge his hobby and passion in all things geological! He had never been self employed before or ever worked in the retail sector, so this was a huge step.
There used to be a similar shop in Durham, but that closed many years ago. The high rent and rates in a similar location meant that the only option (and best, as it turned out) was to open in the Indoor Market.
Colin got his foot in the door by occupying a small unit, just bigger than a wardrobe! However, since then the shop has grown and now occupies a modest, open, unit which enables him to display specimens to good effect.
Colin told Newton News: “It’s been hard work, and remains so, but well worth it. The shop stocks many items at pocket-money prices for the children, all the way up to specialist items for the serious collectors – and all in a small shop in Durham\’s Indoor Market.
I’m very pleased to have had the custom and support from the people of Durham, the surrounding area, and the northeast; without them the shop would not be celebrating five years in business”.
The celebration on Saturday 26th will include balloons, banners, etc, and a few giveaways for the children but mostly a big thank you to my customers.
Colin Flett: http://www.rockandfossilshop.co.uk Facebook: The Rock and Fossil Shop E-mail: colin_flett@yahoo.co.uk
