SPIDERS, snakes, chameleons and leopard geckos are proving popular at a new Bishop Auckland shop.

Glen and Emma Cooper opened Coral Reef and Reptiles in Newgate Street, today (Friday).

The couple, who used to run a similar business in the south of England, decided to set-up in the town after their research revealed there was a gap in the market.

Mr Cooper said: “It has been very busy so far. We have had lots of people coming to have a look and some customers.

“We have about 45 years experience between us and we are a specialist shop. We are really looking forward to the future. If we are successful we plan to expand to things like crocodile skinks.”