The owners of a shop on the Powys border have given it away to their staff.

Eighteen Rabbit has been a fixture of Hay-on-Wye shopping for nearly nine years selling gifts, homewares, jewellery and apparel.

In early 2021, Eighteen Rabbit co-founders Louise Davies and Andrew Williams faced a decision.

Having been closed for much of the previous year due to Covid-19 their six-year lease was coming to an end.

On a day-to-day basis the shop was run by three staff members, Ruth, Szilvia and Layla.

The owners said that they 'no longer relied on the income from the shop'.

The pair added that fair trade projects around the world had never needed more support.

Co-founder Mr Williams said: “This might seem on the face of it to be a bit mad.

"We had the shop commercially valued a couple of years ago and the figure quoted was £65k, although of course Covid has changed the retail landscape. It seemed a great fit for us though – and very much in keeping with the ethical ethos we have had along with the shop.”

The shop will continue to trade under the Eighteen Rabbit banner for the foreseeable future.

Over the past four months, the previous owners have undertaken a comprehensive handover programme, with introductions to key suppliers, analysing buying patterns and looking at administrative elements such as payroll and banking.

New shop manager Ruth Hayden has signed a new lease with the landlord, and as of July 6, the shop will be hers.

Eighteen Rabbit co-founder Mrs Davies added: “The main priority for us was ensuring that we could continue to support the incredible fair trade projects around the world.

"Our customers love the products and knowing they will still have an opportunity to buy them in Hay is fantastic news.”

New shop manager, and now owner, Ruth Hayden said: “I am really excited about this new chapter for Eighteen Rabbit!

"It has been a steep learning curve, but I'm committed to continuing and developing this meaningful and important retail business.

"I am really looking forward to seeing everyone during what we hope will be a busy summer in Hay.”