AN independent homewares shop is embarking on an ambitious expansion with a much larger second branch set to open this summer.

Maybugs in Hailsham is set to take over three floors at the former Laura Ashley shop in Terminus Road in the centre of Eastbourne.

The popular gift and homeware store will open their new branch at the end of July, and aim to "breathe new life" into a the large empty site.

Despite lockdown setbacks, co-owners Greg Rose and John Dale are determined to press ahead with the expansion.

Greg said: "John and I are just too excited - we've been working on this in secret for months.

"Covid delayed our expansion plans but not even that was going to stop us.

"We are ready and raring to bring beautiful things to the fabulous people of Eastbourne.

The Argus: Greg and John outside Maybugs in HailshamGreg and John outside Maybugs in Hailsham

"We have so many wonderful customers that come from Eastbourne to shop with us in Hailsham, or order online via our website, that it was a natural move for us to open a second store here.

"The shop location is such a beautiful old building, but has begun to look rather sad since it's been left vacant.

"We can't wait to get stuck in and help rejuvenate that end of the town with a bit of Maybugs magic."

There will be eight new job openings at the new store initially, increasing to 20 when the first and second floors open next year.

John said the Eastbourne store will stock familiar brands already available at the Hailsham store, such as Wrendale Designs, JellyCat and Inis, but there will also be new additions, thanks to the extra space.

He said: "Just the ground floor is more than double the size of our Hailsham branch, which as you can imagine has enabled us to source lots of new fabulous brands which will be available exclusively in the new Eastbourne store.

"We are not giving all the secrets away just yet - but we have something special planned for the first and second floors which will be opening next spring."

Maybugs Eastbourne will be open seven days a week, from 9am to 5.30pm Monday to Saturday and from 10am to 4pm on Sundays.

Job vacancies will be be advertised on Maybugs social media pages in the coming weeks.