THE latest independent retailer to open for business in Middlesbrough’s thriving Emporium start-up unit is a quirky ladies fashion boutique.

Dolly Rockers specialises in clothing sourced from overseas, and is the idea of entrepreneur Leigh Gallacher.

The 29-year-old began her career making and selling cakes before she decided to put her eye for fashion to good use, by opening her own shop.

Leigh, from Norton in Stockton, said: “I wanted to sell quirky clothing for individual women that you can’t currently find elsewhere in the market targeted at 16- to 40-year-olds.

“I wanted to test-trade my business idea in the Emporium first, as I need to get the products right and understand my market before looking for my own unit within the town.”

The Corner Emporium in The Mall Shopping Centre next to HMV gives start-ups a rent-free unit for six months as well as marketing help and business mentoring.