A GEM of a jewellery shop in Newquay town centre has been given a new lease of life.

Jake Sparham and Kay have taken over Little Gem in East Street following Wendy Harris and Heather Bell deciding to retire after running the business for nearly 20 years.

A workshop for jewellery making and repairs has been installed as part of a major refurbishment of the shop. A professional piercing studio has also been created as well as a watch repair service.

Jake will specialise in selling bespoke handmade jewellery in gold and silver, repairs as well as buying and selling selected second-hand jewellery.

Kay will be focusing on selling silver jewellery and body jewellery as well as an ear piercing service.

Jake said: “We are delighted to continue a jewellery business at the Little Gem shop, which has been a long-standing fixture in the Newquay retail scene.

“Elegant and fun gold and silver creations will be on offer, alongside a jewellery and watch repair service.

“We really would like to thank heather and Wendy for everything they have done for us.

“It truly makes us feel so welcomed and connected within the community.

“We will be forever grateful and do our best to do what they did and do for Newquay.

“How they worked so well together was a massive inspiration. We would like to thank them for everything.”

Jake and Kay previously operated out of the Artisans Emporium in East Street.

Wendy said: We are thrilled Jake and Kay are carrying on Little Gem.

“They used to pop into the shop from time to time when we were open.

“We always loved running Little Gem. We never had the Sunday night or Monday morning blues about going into work.

“We always had such lovely customers. We hope they support Jake and Kay in the same way.”