A UNIQUE shop selling African Caribbean food in Andover has been given a cash boost.

Rita African Caribbean Food Market, in Waterloo Court, was presented an independent retailer grant from Test Valley Borough Council.

Customers from across Hampshire and Wiltshire are now visiting the shop since it opened its doors last year.

Located next door to her brother’s barbershop, Rita Anoma’s business specialises in selling Ghanaian, Nigerian and Jamaican foods, as well as goods from South Africa and Cameroon among others.

Rita said: “To see my business start taking off is fantastic and I’m so pleased that the people of Andover seem to enjoy shopping here.

“It’s also a bonus to be next door to my brother and I’m glad he recommended this grant to me as the support I’ve had from Test Valley Borough Council has been invaluable.”

The cheque was presented by St Mary’s ward councillor John Cockaday.

Cllr Cockaday said: “Rita’s hard work is paying off with customers coming from all over to try out some of the food she has on offer. Having Rita’s business attract visitors into Andover is brilliant and I’m glad that the council has helped make that happen.”