AN independent shoe retailer celebrating 25 years is expanding with its first e-commerce website.

Veneto, which has shops in Helmsley and Easingwold, was first set up in Grape Lane, York, with help from the Enterprise Allowance scheme in 1988, and was named after Via Veneto in Rome.

Sally Butler founded the company, which is known for its colourful ranges, after working in a boutique shoe shop, when national chains dominated the market.

She moved to Helmsley two years later when the Quarter was redeveloped.

She said: “Helmsley was just becoming the place to go, with lots of nice countrywear shops.”

Sally said most of the chains had now disappeared, while she had experienced three recessions in her 25 years in business.

“This is where an independent can become quite strong,” she said.

“You can adapt or trim if you need to.”

Sally, who has not previously sold online, hopes the new side of the business will encourage shoppers who visit her on regular holidays to Helmsley to buy all-year round. She also intends to bring in exclusive online ranges, particularly of matching shoes and bags.