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Popular Aviemore gift shop trashed by Storm Otto





Aviemore Gift Company, on Grampian Road, has been forced to close after "heartbreaking" damage was discovered on Friday after Storm Otto struck.

"We are really sorry but Aviemore Gift Company is temporarily closed," said owner Annemarie Grigsby.

Devastation: the smashed ceiling at Aviemore Gift Company.
Devastation: the smashed ceiling at Aviemore Gift Company.

"It was due to the high winds from Thursday night causing a lot of damage to our roof, allowing water to come into the shop through the ceiling.

"We have a fair amount of damage inside, and due to the bad weather it’s possibly going to get worse..."

Trashed: the storm has closed the shop indefinitely
Trashed: the storm has closed the shop indefinitely

Photos taken at the weekend show just how badly the shop was hit by the storm, with the ceiling having come down and the floor flooded.

"Hopefully we won’t be closed for too long, as we can’t wait to get the doors back open again to welcome everyone back in," said Mrs Grigsby.

It's not known just how much of the shop's precious stock has been lost
It's not known just how much of the shop's precious stock has been lost

Speaking to the Strathy this morning, she confirmed that the storm had taken roof tiles and insulation off the top of the building.

"We have been totally exposed to all the snow and rain.

Plundered: Storm Otto's effect on the roof of Aviemore Gift Company
Plundered: Storm Otto's effect on the roof of Aviemore Gift Company

"Unfortunately it’s not going to be quick turn around as the walls, ceiling and flooring will need replacing. We're just trying to save as much stock as possible from further damage.

"It’s truly heartbreaking to see mine and Kevin’s hard work painting and sanding everything and putting our hearts and souls into it ruined.

Inundated after the tiles and insulation were ripped off the roof
Inundated after the tiles and insulation were ripped off the roof

"However, we will come back with a lot of hard work and time."


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