A NEW independent business has been launched in Taunton, near the train station, hoping to satisfy Somerset horror fans.

Set up on 85 Station Road, this 'little shop of horrors' is offering something there is a lack of in Taunton, especially since 'Party On' closed in 2018.

Despairia is a horror-themed shop that mainly sells merchandise related to horror films such as figures, masks, pins, plushies, bags and framed pictures.

The owner, Lydia Lee-Smith, says some of the stock is handmade and some of it has been imported.

The shop is open from Tuesday until Saturday with Despairia closing up at 2.30pm each Saturday.

The shop is open all week except for Monday and Sunday, unless an event is being held. (Image: Newsquest)

Lydia is the former owner of 'Geek Labs', and after it closed down and her commercial property became free again, she was in two minds about what to open next.

Lydia said: "I love horror. I saw a horror shop in Florida back in January and when my commercial property became free again I just took the leap."

After officially opening last Saturday, Lydia is optimistic that people will want to visit her new business. Lydia is happy about how the shop has been received in its first few days.

She said: "It seems to be positive, children and adults were very excited to visit Friday and Saturday on the first two opening days."

The Taunton business owner has big plans for the shop, as she hopes to hold events later down the line - potentially during Halloween.

"I probably will hold small events further down the line the line. Getting the kids involved with something at Halloween could be successful.

"Maybe an evening of Tarot readings."