Linda has success in the bag with new clothing shop

Linda Sutcliffe opened the Tuana clothing shop on Wharfe Street in September after taking redundancy from her previous job at Sowerby Bridge High School.

“I honestly believe Sowerby Bridge has so much potential if we can get more local businesses,” she said.

“There are already a few bars and restaurants but we’re just short of a few more shops to attract people here, like Hebden Bridge does.

“It would be nice to build Sowerby Bridge up because it’s got an awful lot of potential.

“We need to try and promote Sowerby Bridge much more - it’s neglected in a way.

“If you go to Halifax or Ripponden they have flowers and displays and I think we need to look more attractive.”

Linda painted and decorated the shop herself after it had been empty for the previous two years.

The shop sells boutique clothing, footwear and accessories, including the customisable Italian O bag.

“I want to cater for everybody, regardless of their size, age or budget,” she added.

“Plus I’m the only supplier of the O bag in West Yorkshire.

“You design it yourself with your own fabric, be it fur, knitted, leather, suede.

“And it can have long or short handles.

“I have some cheap and cheerful clothes and some more expensive items.

“And I’ve stocked up on jewellery, scarves, hats and gloves for Christmas presents.

“It was quite scary going from having a guaranteed income to being my own boss, but I’m quite a confident person so I had to go for it.

“Clothing is always something I’ve been interested in and doing this was always my long-term plan. It took a lot of thinking about as it was a big decision.

“It’s been really good so far - all the customers and other businesses have been really supportive and friendly.

“It’s already been more successful than I anticipated but I’m not getting carried away.”