A MONMOUTHSHIRE physiotherapist has defied this year’s tough economic climate by opening two shops during the coronavirus pandemic.

Catherine Jones, from Trostrey, launched a clinic in Usk at the beginning of August once lockdown restrictions had been lifted.

CliniKind, on Bridge Street, offers services including physiotherapy treatment, body composition analysis for weight management and sports, deep tissue and therapeutic massage.

It also boasts an ancillary holistic health shop selling home exercise and yoga equipment, mindfulness and meditation supplies, natural remedies, informative books and literature and a range of exercise clothing.

A second retail offering, Artemis, has now opened in Monmouth. Local MP David Davies officially cut the ribbon on Saturday November 21).

The openings came with the help of a UK government support grant and 100 per cent relief from business rates until April 2021.

“In these daunting times, I certainly take my hat off to Cathy,” said Mr Davies.

“She has approached the challenge of Covid-19 by adopting a longer-term view and as a resident of Monmouthshire, it is great to see her proudly fronting not one but two business in the county and employing local people.”

With a decade’s experience, Catherine initially worked as a sports massage therapist before taking a change of direction in her career and heading back to study physiotherapy as a mature student at Cardiff University.

There she obtained a first-class honours degree followed by a masters, for which she obtained a distinction.

As a stand-alone business to her CliniKind physio, Artemis on Monnow Street has its own identity and promotes natural and holistic living.

The shop is an approved stockist for a number of UK brands such as Neal’s Yard remedies and Celtic & co. and also stocks high-quality Fairtrade products from Pashamama Knitwear and Black Yak, which support fair wages, good working conditions and create opportunities for disadvantaged producers in Nepal.

“At both our stores and within our clinics we have tried to create little calm sanctuaries, especially during these challenging times,” said Catherine.

Mr Davies added: “Cathy decided a business suit wasn’t quite the right fit for her shop and got me trying out some of the wonderful sustainable jumpers.

“It was a great pleasure to meet her and support this new business venture. I am sure it is going to be a very welcome addition to Monmouth.”

For further information, visit www.clinikind.com and www.artemissoulsanctuary.com.