A PROUD market stall owner is celebrating two years in business after facing initial uncertainty when she launched during the pandemic.

Angela Law set up Poochios, a pet supplies company, as a market stall. 

She had intended to open a shop but due to the pandemic she would have been unable to trade.

Coming from a career in nursing homes and hospitals, Angela built Poochios up from scratch over two years.

With her children all grown up, Angela wanted to do something for herself.

She has thanked Red Lion centre manager Martin Leatherdale and market manager Demi Quinn for their support.

The business also has an online presence through its website and social media channels.

Angela said: “It helps us now because people know us from the market but wouldn’t have at the start since no one knew who we were.”

Poochios is very much a family affair with many of Angela’s relatives often coming to help.

The stall runs from 8.30am to 5pm Wednesday to Saturday at the Lion Walk Shopping Centre in the city centre.

Angela said: “Being a market trader for two years, I know how hard it is. All weather – rain, shiny, windy.

“Hopefully, we get more market traders and get the market up and running like it used to be.

“Make Colchester fun to come in [and visit] again.”

Family members on hand include husband Tony, grown-up sons Ryan, Mitchell and Joshua as well as daughters-in-law Rosie, Tasmin and Jessica.

Angela’s 12-year-old niece Lacey also helps serve on Saturdays.