AN online auction seller has switched to a bricks and mortar shop to launch her second-hand chic business.

Shari Kelly set up The Refurbished Furniture Company in a former petrol station in Newbiggin by the Sea, where she also gives classic items a new lease of life.

She said: “Lots of people these days are counting their pennies and they appreciate the quality and workmanship that went into older furniture that you’d pay a fortune for if it was brand new. Plus there’s a danger that your neighbours have bought exactly the same thing.

“I specialise in lovingly restoring and refurbishing quality furniture, mostly solid wood. It’s unique, it’s good quality and it’s cheaper than buying new or even antiques.”

She worked with Ashington-based business start-up support organisation Go Wansbeck to put together her business plan.

Enterprise coach Graeme Trotter said: “Shari’s furniture is fabulous and she’s really got what it takes to run a great business.

“She used to work in the banking sector and more recently in a solicitor’s office but this is where her heart is. All she needed was a little bit of help to get it off the ground.”