A FAMILY jewellers moved into a 'prime location' within the town centre last weekend.

David Mellor Family Jewellers officially launched its store inside the Chantry Centre on Saturday, 4 November.

News of the relocation into the former Carphone Warehouse site was released back in August.

Amy Mellor, manager, said: "We're thrilled to be open in the Chantry Centre, after nearly 40 years in the town, it shows that we're here for the long run...hopefully!

"Just over two weeks in and thus far, signs are positive, so overall we're very happy about our new location.

"We've been overwhelmed by positive comments and best wishes from our customers, both old and new, and look forward to welcoming many more people over the coming months."

Test Valley borough councillor, Brian Page, and Dorothy May also attended the event.

Amy added the family found this 'quite befitting' as the pair cut the ribbon to the Mellor's Waterloo Court premises nine years ago when councillor Page was mayor.

The business, which has two other shops in Eastleigh and Totton, began life over 40 years ago with founder David Mellor operating market stalls, often sleeping in his van to guarantee a spot, before gaining a pitch at the bottom of High Street, Andover.

Ten years after starting trading, he and his wife Christine opened a store in Eastleigh followed shortly by a store opening in Totton while continuing on the markets.

The Andover side of the business then moved into Waterloo Court in 2008.

David remains front of house across all three stores while Christine manages the finances and administration.

Their eldest son, Dan, is a goldsmith and manages the workshop in Totton while their other son, Jim, is predominantly sales-based, managing both the Eastleigh and Totton shops.

Daughter Amy co-manages the Andover store with assistant manager Tara Yeates as well as handling the marketing side of the business.

For more information about David Mellor Family Jewellers, visit davidmellorjewellers.co.uk.