A FASHION boutique owner who has helped North-East women look their best for more than 30 years has retired.

Mavis Wayman, 74, was working as a logistics manager when she bought Jayne, a women’s clothes shop in Sedgefield, County Durham, in the early 1980s.

Over the years, Mrs Wayman channelled her passion for fashion into the store and earned herself a legion of loyal customers who were hooked by her stylish stock and friendly nature.

It was not long before word got out and her customer base grew to include business women from Ireland and the United States.

She even welcomed former American president George Bush into the shop when he visited the town in 2003 with then Prime Minister and former Sedgefield MP, Tony Blair.

Six years ago, when Mrs Wayman’s beloved husband Jim died, she bought a dog, Molly, and her much-loved pooch soon became a popular fixture at the shop.

“I have loved every minute of it,” said Mrs Wayman, who moved to Sedgefield in 1960.

“I have so many wonderful memories and have met some lovely people.”

Today (Wednesday, March 5) the grandmother-of-four held a party at the Dun Cow pub to thank everyone who has supported her over the years.

Jayne, on Front Street, will continue with stylist Elena Degnan at the helm.

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