'IT has been busier than we projected, it's been really positive."

These are the words of Matt and Emily Scott who said they have already had to extend their opening hours just eight weeks after opening their new furniture store, Sopha, in Highbridge.  

The couple from Burnham-on-Sea acquired the former George Hotel and a derelict tattoo studio in Church Street in July 2016 and spent two years transforming it into a modern furniture store and coffee shop. 

Matt Scott, owner of Sopha, said the store has been a hit with customers and he has received a positive response from the community. 

"We have already had to expand the number of tables and chairs in the cafe and extend our opening hours as we have seen an increase in demand," Matt said.

"It has been busier than we projected, it's been really positive. 

"We had a clear vision from the start with what we wanted to create. 

"We took out 1,000 tonnes of masonry and plasterboard from the building, but have also retained all the heritage of the original building. 

"We are delighted with the final result - Highbridge has a modern, new furniture store."

The store, which sells handmade beds, sofas, tables and chairs as well as lights, bedding, clocks and cushions, has created 12 jobs and Matt said they plan to recruit three more staff later this year. 

He said the store's eight week 'soft opening' has been a success and the store's grand opening will happen later this year as well as the launch of their online store. 

He said: "Sopha is offering something very different to the rest of the furniture industry.

"We aim to make everything in the store bespoke to us wherever possible. 

"We source as much of the food and drink in the cafe as possible from local suppliers and all of our coffee is fair trade and ethically sourced. 

"It is part of our plan to be an ethical retailer, trying to change the industry for the long term. 

"I think the response we have had shows there is a real chance to get Highbridge back on the map."