Hats off to new bistro
The owner of a trendy new bistro in Andover has received a £750 Business Incentive Grant from Test Valley Borough Council.
Martin Brown, who opened Hatters in November 2016, is celebrating a successful launch after more than six months of trading. The popular venue in Shaws Walk switches from a tea room during the day to a tapas wine bar in the evenings and regularly welcomes live acoustic bands to entertain customers.
St Mary’s ward member, Councillor David Denny, presented the Council’s cheque to Martin and congratulated him on the early success of the business. He said: “Martin has carried out extensive refurbishments at the premises and it looks fantastic. The concept of Hatters appeals to a wide range of local people and the transition between a tea room and wine bar is seamless. It really is a great initiative and I wish Martin the best of luck in his new business venture.”
Martin added: “It’s been a long-held dream of mine to open up a hospitality business and I’m really pleased I’ve finally been able to go for it. Andover is a great place to live and I’m proud to offer something new to residents and visitors. I’ve received a lot of support in these early days and I am very grateful to everyone who has helped me open Hatters.”
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 will receive a grant of £750 if their business is still going strong six months later.
For more information about the Council’s Business Incentive Grants, click here.