AN exotic food shop has opened its doors to customers in Leigh.

SpiceBoat welcomed shoppers for the first time on Saturday in the building which used to house Stafford’s Hair Salon, in London Road.

Shelves are stocked with ingredients from around the world, including curry powders, noodles and fresh fruit and veg.

Business owner Kobir Hussain, who also runs Orchid Food of Asia, in London Road, Westcliff, said reaction to the new shop had been superb. Mr Hussain, who lives in Leigh, said: “I always have high expectations and some people say I’m a bit of a dreamer. But when we opened on Saturday, the reaction from shoppers surpassed my expectations and it was brilliant.

“People love cooking and probably are not going to restaurants as much as they used to, and our shop will give them the chance to find and cook loads of different dishes.”