We’re back! Aviemore Gift Company trading again after heroic rebuild

The Grigsby family had barely opened their Aviemore gift shop on Grampian Road in February, last year, when Storm Otto ripped the roof off it and the heart out of it

The heartbreaking damage forced them to post: "We are really sorry but Aviemore Gift Company is temporarily closed."

And Annemarie Grigsby crossed her fingers and hoped that it would just be temporary but she knew she was hoping against hope.

"It was due to the high winds 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..."

It did. The damage proved total and nothing was saved of the stock or the internal fittings. The job of assessing the manner and cost of restoring the business began.

"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, after seeing for herself 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. Unfortunately it’s not going to be quick turn around as the walls, ceiling and flooring will need replacing.

“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.

“But we will come back with a lot of hard work and time.

It took over a year and a lot of blood, sweat and not a few tears.But at last their phoenix has risen from the flood. Since their Easter reopening it’s gone like a fair.

Mrs Grigsby said: “It’s great to see so many regular and new faces in. We’re really proud of the results. I love the positive feedback. The kids’ section upstairs has them all so excited.

And the older customers get their own especial thrill in the brand new Clan Room. It’s still to be completed but it is working ‘really well’.

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