RETAILERS are voting with their future and opening up new businesses in Ledbury.

At least five new businesses have either opened or are set to open in town this spring.

This is despite international fears over the credit crunch and earlier local concerns over the impact of mains water repairs in the town centre.

Most of the retailers setting up stall in Ledbury say it is a big vote of confidence in the market town.

Fashion Giant Austin Reed opened the "CC" boutique in the former tourist information centre on May 16.

Austin Reed spokesperson, Amanda Macleod Smith, said it was the strategy to open stores in market towns like Ledbury, where shoppers like to shop locally.

The Little Shop of Wonders toy shop has moved from Malvern and has just opened in Bye Street.

Owner Duncan Cresswell said: "The premises came up at the right time and hopefully we'll be here for a long time. We are getting lots of customers through the door and we have been very warmly welcomed."

Sisters Hannah Cameron and Rebecca Swan opened the Cameron and Swan cafe and delicatessen in the Homend just over a week ago.

Hannah said: "Our parents own Whites Farm at Broomsgreen and so we are two local girls who are passionate about food, and there's nowhere we'd rather be!"

Tessa Hemmons will open the "Elements" beauty salon in the Homend Mews on June 10, with an open day on June 12, from 2pm to 6pm, featuring champagne and canapes.

She said: "It's lovely in the Homend Mews and I've also heard it said that Ledbury will become the new Ludlow!"

The "Just Kidz" children's clothes shop has recently opened on The Homend and there are strong rumours in town that a lingerie shop will move into the former greengrocers store, by the Market House.

Meanwhile "The Orangery" luggage and quality gift shop has left its old location but has not moved very far.

It can be now be found at Tudor House, in the High Street.