Monica goes out on her own

After a number of years working in the retail business, local woman Monica Clifford has set up shop on her own.



"I've wanted to do this for some time," she says of the homeware and gifts operation she has set up in the former Tyrrells Family Drapers location, strategically close to Kilcullen's shopping focus of the Eurospar Supermarket, Nolans Victuallers and Berneys Pharmacy.

"I'm starting small," Monica smiles. "And I know it's not easy to do something like this. But I would rather be able to say I've tried than look back and wish that I had."

Monica, who previously worked in the former XL forecourt shop now operated by Fraser Oil, says she's already getting a lot of positive support from local people. She has plenty of experience dealing with customers on a wide ranging basis as she previously worked in Atlantic Homecare in Newbridge.

"I feel there's a small shopping gap in the town, such as a place where people need to get a present for a birthday. As a mother and a shopper myself, I knew it was needed. Whether they want to spend ten euros or 80 euros, they have a choice here."

Monica is listening carefully to what people coming into the shop are saying, and looking for. "Whatever I find they want, I'll go with," she says, adding that when it comes to seasonal needs, like Christmas, she'll be catering for that business too.

Brian Byrne.