THE new occupant of what was the last empty shop in Kirkby Lonsdale has opened its doors to offer a novel and groundbreaking range of products.

The Gemology Store is part of an international chain stocking 'trace elements' from precious and semi-precious stones, each of which has a different benefit to the skin.

The chain has shops in 36 countries and markets itself as a French luxury skincare brand while emphasising that its products are mineral based rather than chemical based.

And store manager Helen Willison-Holt said she was excited and delighted that Gemology had decided to open their very first UK outlet in thriving little market town.

"Kirkby Lonsdale was the perfect fit for the brand's first store," she said.

"We had Kirkby in mind for quite a while but unfortunately, with it been such an upcoming and vibrant town, empty shops generally don't exist here.

"It seemed like fate when a shop became available and it was on the off chance that the company came across it.

"We snapped it up within a couple of days and set to work in time to open for the Christmas markets just five days later."

Mrs Willison-Holt said she had been delighted by the welcome from residents fellow traders in Kirkby Lonsdale and was looking forward to becoming an established feature of the town's retail scene.

"The local community has been fantastic and has shown a lot of interest in the brand," she said.

"Lots of the local traders were here to give a helping hand when they realised the quick turnaround the store had, I'd like to say a big thank you to everyone.

"I'm looking forward to working within Kirkby Lonsdale and I'm also extremely excited about rolling out other locations in the future."

The store has had a busy first few days since opening its doors, and there already firm plans for expansion in the New Year when a treatment cabin will be added at the rear of the shop.