Stitcher's later became Downsway – an indoor market, where several traders sold an array of products. John Whittington dispensing chemist's moved here recently.

RUSHDEN is becoming a boom town with the opening of new shops and others under construction.

Traders and civic chiefs have both welcomed the new lease of life being given to the town centre and are hopeful for the future.

Yesterday a pharmacy opened in the High Street arcade, which was once bustling with stallholders but has been empty for the past 18 months.

New shops including a supermarket will open later this year when the College Street centre just off the High Street is opened.

And is the summer Sam's Place, also in the High Street, is being converted into a night club. The building — also empty for 18 months — re­opened in November as a tea-shop, wine bar and restaurant. The former Jubilee Arcade has been converted into a large store by local chemist John Whitttington.

In recent weeks Herbies Mini-Market has opened a second High Street shop and several other stores have completed shop front improvements.

Sam's Place and Kwik Save 1985

Planning permission has been given for partners Nigel Reynolds and Harry Garney to start work on converting Sam's Place into a nightspot.

They hope to open it as a private members' club in April under the name of Velvets and plan to feature live entertainment.

East Northants council chairman, Cllr Clive Wood said he was delighted Rushden was proving so popular for shoppers.

"People are getting frustrated by big shopping centres and Rushden is becoming more and more popular.

"We have had many compliments from people living in north Bedfordshire who say they come to Rushden because they like the shops and can park free of charge.

"People also comment on the friendly and helpful attitude of staff in Rushden shops."

President of Rushden and Higham Ferrers Chamber of Trade David Wills said the appeal of Rushden — with its traditional style high street — was growing.

"People obviously like the traditional high street and seem to be turning away from the concrete jungles. It is very encouraging to see shops which have stood empty brought back into use and looks well for the future."