THE retail sector in Wells has seen further changes with the opening of two pet shops, and another clothes shop set to open soon.

New owners have taken on what was Thatchers pet shop in Queen Street, Pets Corner has opened in one of the new units in Princes Road, and a new clothes store is due to open in Wells High Street in September.

Natural Pets Of Wells, as the former Thatchers shop is now known, has been opened by Nigel and Heather Derrick, who have run the Columbard Pets shop in Midsomer Norton High Street for almost four years.

"We both had many years' experience in the farming industry in the days before small working farms became almost extinct, so a life where animal care and welfare are paramount is ingrained into us both," said Heather.

"The experience we brought from caring for a wide variety of farm animals, plus probably caring for an even wider variety of pets courtesy of having three children who adored everything with fur or feathers, has certainly proved very useful."

Heather said that the shop will stock a good selection of raw and grain-free feeds and treats for dogs, cats and ferrets, in addition to a comprehensive selection of other quality brands, alongside everything else needed for pets from budgie perches to hamster balls and wild bird feeds.

She added: "Our staff are our greatest asset, they are all passionate about animal care and every single one of them always goes above and beyond for customers. They are all incredibly supportive of us spreading our wings to grow the business as well. We certainly couldn't do this without their support so as I'm sure many other small business owners will agree, when you have a small business your staff work with you, rather than for you."

Pets Corner opened its doors in Wells at the end of July.

The company says it has been at the forefront of animal nutrition since 1968, and describes itself as the home of natural pet foods.

Managing director Dean Richmond said: "We are delighted to be expanding our stores within Somerset, to be able to provide more people and pets with better nutrition and quality products."

The Quba & Co clothing chain that is opening a shop in Wells High Street has opened 22 stores in the UK since it was founded in Salcombe, Devon, in 1996.

"Quba & Co are proud to be opening a new store in Wells in September," said area manager Marina Ragageles.

"Our new store will offer our collections of ladies and men's clothing and accessories inspired by the coast and displaying quality, individuality and great attention to detail. We will also be offering our iconic X series, which is steeped in our heritage."

The store will take over the premises vacated by clothes retailer East, nearly opposite the recently opened Seasalt clothes shop, with fashions inspired by that chain's Cornish heritage.

• Picture: Nigel Derrick at Natural Pets Of Wells