Funding for First Floor Gallery
Business Incentive Grant for Romsey framer
Test Valley Borough Council has awarded a £500 Business Incentive Grant to David Ridler in support of his work to take over a popular picture-framing business in Romsey, First Floor Gallery and Picture Framing in new premises at Hunts Farm, Michelmersh.
David’s experience as a craftsman at First Floor Gallery spanned 12 years and placed him in an ideal position to take over the business when a change in circumstances arose. As a loyal employee, David was keen to retain part of the company’s name and has employed another former colleague to help to minimise disruption for customers and staff.
King’s Somborne and Michelmersh ward member, Councillor Tony Ward, said: “First Floor Gallery has been very successful since it opened in the 1980s. I’m pleased that David has been able to maintain the shop’s excellent reputation as well as put his own mark on the business. I wish him the very best of luck in his new venture.”
David said: “I’d like to thank Test Valley Borough Council for the grant. I’m very fortunate that I’ve been able to take over the business with minimal impact on our loyal customers. I am passionate about the business and I am looking forward to seeing what the future brings.”
The Council’s Business Incentive Grants are available to anyone looking to set up their own business in Test Valley. Anyone who successfully applies for the grant after 1 April 2016 will receive a grant of £750 if their business is still going strong six months later.
Read more information about the Council’s Business Incentive Grants.