Nantwich music fan Steve Cook put his lockdown boredom to good use – by launching a new music store!
Steve was so frustrated at not being to buy a vinyl record anywhere that he decided to run one himself – and Applestump Records was born.
Steve, who hails originally from Cwmbran in Wales, said the closure of traditional record shops sparked his decision to launch the new venture.
“During the early 90’s I would leave school each day and head straight for the local independent record shop,” he said.
“It was called Applestump Records.
“Sadly, the shop was forced to close around this time when the big boys, namely Our Price and MVC, came to town and started throwing their far greater buying power weight around.
“It was the end of Applestump Records, Cwmbran but the start of a lifelong music obsession for me.”
He hopes Applestump Records, Nantwich will pay homage to that “little shop in Cwmbran” where it all began 25 years ago.
“I’m hoping that I can help others along their musical journeys,” he added
“The shop specialises in new vinyl records across the whole musical spectrum from alternative to indie, folk, rock, hip-hop, dance, funk and soul.
“If I do not currently hold stock of something you want, I am able to order it from one of the half-a-dozen distributors I have an account with.”
The shop is currently online only (www.applestumprecords.com) but Steve aims to build a following and enough stock to open a physical “bricks and mortar” store in Nantwich.
He also plans to run pop-up shops around the town in bars and pubs and play a role in contributing to what is already a supportive community.
“In the meantime, I am offering free local delivery to CW1 and CW5 area codes and click and collect from my house for orders placed via the website,” he added.
Find out more by visiting www.applestumprecords.com
