A COSTUME shop has been praised by residents as it is still going strong after six years.

As part of the #BDHiddenGems project, The Times was interested to find out what readers and visitors loved about the district.

A number of responses indicated a top favourite was Chameleon Costumes, on Springwood Industrial Estate.

Times reporter Katherine Palmer, who is investigating the district's Hidden Gems with the help of Braintree Council, said it showed the town still enjoys a bit of fun.

She said: "It's like Aladdin's cave, they have everything from costumes throughout the decades to TV and film characters.

"There are more than 2,500 outfits to choose from, and lots of accessories available for hire.

"It's further evidence the town has something quirky to offer, and it just goes to show residents are still getting into the party spirit."

Andy and Mandy Farrow opened the fancy dress hire shop in April 2011.

They made an impulse buy of 600 costumes from a fancy dress shop in Clacton which was closing down.

Miss Palmer said: "I think the story behind Chameleon is fantastic, the family has never looked back and although it was such a whacky decision

they have done so well to keep it up."

Have you found a hidden gem you would like to tell us about?

Write to us or contact us via Facebook or Twitter, using the hashtag #BDHiddenGems.