A new shop named after the owners' children has opened its doors in Ashby.

Lil Bo's Deli is situated in Mill Lane Mews - and has been described as a 'dream' venture for husband and wife team, Steve and Deborah Evans.

The store is two shops that have been knocked into one.

What was once a former tea room and a dry cleaners has now been transformed into an attractive store selling some unique food and drink items.

But do not let appearances fool you, there is more to Lil'Bo's than meets the eye from outside.

Inside, there is a new space to be discovered at every turn - upstairs and downstairs.

You can take your pick from a wide range of food and drink, sourced locally and from different parts of the country, a cafe and restaurant, a bar and even a gallery showcasing the work of local artists.

Deb was born at the former Ashby Cottage Hospital, and the couple are excited to be setting up in the town.

Steve, a former landscaper, says the shop has been two years in the planning - and adds that Ashby is an ideal town for a shop such as this.

He told Ashby Nub News: "It really is a beautiful market town, and it's been crying out for a place like this.

"You can come in, have a browse, stock up on some food and drink for Christmas, then maybe have a cup of coffee and a bite to eat.

"We want to you to take your time and see all we have here. With it being two former shop units, we've managed to fit a lot in downstairs and upstairs.

"Catering and hospitality has been a little bit out of my comfort zone compared to my previous job, but we've both put a lot of thought and effort into this place. 

"There are some unique things here. We think people will like it and Mill Lane Mews is such a great setting."

The name comes from the couple's children, Lily and Harrison - nicknamed Bo.

And Deb says customers are sure to find something they will not have tasted before.

She said: "We've sourced products from a variety of places, including Wales where Steve is from.

"But our main focus is on using local produce wherever possible.

"So we hope, when you come in, there'll be something that's new to you.

"But we are using local staff with most coming from Ashby, which is something we wanted to do."

Deb says the couple wanted to be up and running before Christmas - and emphasised that it is more than just a food shop.

She added: "It's nice and informal downstairs, with sofas, so you can spend some time there and have a coffee.

"But upstairs there's a restaurant with specially made tables, we wanted to create a nice, relaxed atmosphere."

Deb says Lil'Bo's also stocks kitchenware, including pans from a Shropshire company that favoured them ahead of a well-known national chain.

Looking around the store is an experience in itself with a wide range of products to be seen.

Lil'Bo's was officially opened last Tuesday by former Ashby Mayor, Graham Allman, who said in his speech: "It is most pleasing to see such a high quality venue being newly opened at the heart of our wonderful market town of Ashby de la Zouch.

"Through post-Covid, businesses have been hard pressed, in particular, hospitality.

"Lil'Bo's Deli is a bright new star, and Steve's long-time dream, with Debbie supporting him alongside.

"They are very excited to become part of a close-knit community, and I for one, welcome them with open arms.

"The hope is that Ashby will be the flagship for many more such ventures."