A COUPLE who gave up their jobs to open an antiques shop and tea room say they are glad their gamble has paid off.

Andrew and Christine Wallington, of Carterton, rolled the dice when they both packed in good jobs and decided to open up a business in Bourton.

Mr Wallington, said it was a “bit of gamble” when they opened Cotswold Antiques & Tearoom, in Victoria Street, in March, but after enjoying a good trade over the last few months, their risk seems to have paid off.

The 50-year-old, who used to design and make furniture for Griffiths Woodwear in Brize Norton, said he had never been an antique dealer before but had always enjoyed the thrill of going to auctions.

“I went to an auction a couple of years ago and bought some stuff and got a bug for it,” he said. “I kept filling the house up and it’s just gone on from there. I had so much stuff I think that’s what kicked it off.

“Going to the auctions is the best bit. It just gives me such a buzz.”

The shop, which is open daily from 9am to 5pm, also offers home made cakes and cold snacks.

And Mr Wallington said since opening, business had been going well.

“I think it was a big risk, you don’t know if it’s going to take off,” he said. “It’s been better than I anticipated.”