A NEW name has appeared above a fashion boutique in Cardigan – but the face behind the counter will be very familiar.

Carole Davis has launched Solo on the High Street, opposite what was the Black Lion Hotel. The shop was previously called Steil, for whom Carole used to work but is now the boss of her own business venture.

It will be a big change for Carole, who in the past has been more used to dealing with horses rather than ladies’ and men’s boutique fashion, selling brands such as Barbour, Gant and Fynch Hatton.

“I have spent 30 years working in the horse racing industry around Lambourn in Berkshire,” said Carole, who grew up in Aberporth and went to school in Cardigan before leaving the area after college.

Carole started working in racing stables and ended up as a racing secretary for the likes of former top Derby-winning trainer Barry Hills.

So what persuaded Carole to give up her equine career to return to her roots and run a shop?

“My family still lives in the area and I was always going to come home. My husband Barry also loves the area and we bought a property near Llangrannog back in 2011 and have been commuting back and forth for a few years,” she said.

“We moved down permanently in 2016 and I was looking for a job. I walked into Steil one day and asked if they were looking for staff and they took my details and then offered me a job.

“I have been here two years and the former owners have decided to lease out the shop and gave me first refusal. I could not turn it down and have to give it a go.

“I have called the business Solo because there is just the one shop and me. I have wondered if I am doing the right thing when you hear of all these shops such as House of Fraser closing on the high street but I have had tremendous support from so many local people and they have been very kind.

“I am not missing the racing world at all and fashion has always been an interest of mine. You would go to Royal Ascot and dress up. It’s another hobby really that I am lucky enough to have as a job.”

To help celebrate the new business, an official launch party is being held on Saturday, August 25, from 10am-5pm, with discounts being offered along with a glass of Prosecco.