John Allen, who was Mayor of Wootton Bassett in 1998-99, has set up a new business to benefit crafts enthusiasts.

Full of Surprises, his retail outlet in the High Street's Apsley House Arcade, features an interior graffiti wall on which two young artists painted their specially commissioned design, incorporating the name of the business. "As far as I'm aware, this hasn't been done in any other shop in the country,"said Mr Allen.

The shop has a pick and mix craft materials section which offers small quantities of many items.

Kathy Fletcher, an early visitor, said: "That's a big advantage because often you get things that are only available in quantities."

After the official opening by the Mayor and consort, Audrey and Chris Wannell, the venture was welcomed by Chamber of Commerce president Jonathan Loader.

So far, 11 craftspeople are involved, and Mr Allen has space for several more.

"If there is an unusual item you need, for your craft, and you can't locate it, please ask us and we will find it for you. If we fail, you can have a free gift from the shop," he said.

l Pictured above at the opening are, from the left: Mayor's Consort Chris Wannell, town crier Owen Collier, Chamber of Commerce president Jonathan Loader, Mayor Audrey Wannell and John Allen.