New children’s shop is a tuneful venture

Millie & Bertie’s, on Huddersfield Road, sells kids clothes, books and accessories, but also hosts activites such as story time and sing-alongs.

The idea grew when co-owner and mum-of-four Donna Coe, who runs the shop with husband Robert and daughter Emily, was told by other parents that there was nothing for younger kids to do in Mirfield.

The shop opened three months ago and is rooted in nostalgia and national childhood traditions, said Donna.

“We always meant it to be a community space rather than just a shop.

“My aim is to make it somewhere that parents can feel comfortable bobbing in and out of.

“I wanted to play my part in making Mirfield a bit different. It is something that we are definitely going to build on.”

Around 10 parents took children to the first sing-along on Monday, which was aimed at kids aged two and under.

Story time, which is held on Fridays, started two months ago and has included volunteers reading old favourites such as Little Red Riding Hood. It is meant for children aged two and above, but all are welcome.

Donna said: “They absolutely love it. A lot of them book in as soon as they have finished a session.”

It is the latest stage in the Ossett-based family’s business ventures, having previously opened ladies and homeware store Beadelicous and The Apple Tree sweet shop in Mirfield.

To book a sing-along or story time session, visit the Millie & Bertie’s Faceboook page.