A NEW sandwich bar has opened in Winchester, aiming to attract customers with fresh ingredients and nostalgic vibes.

Two Hands opened its doors today Thursday November 7 for the first time on Southgate Street, opposite Mint Tea Boutique, offering sandwiches made with locally sourced ingredients.

It is owned by Bex Smith, 36, who also owns another business in town, Open House Deli. She is a Winchester native and was inspired by the shops she knew growing up.

Bex said: "We want to feel like a local hangout spot, somewhere people come every day. We've handed out loads of flyers!

"We're going to be open from seven in the morning. Get your coffee, get your sarnie before work. We're also going to do breakfast butties and then, in time, we're going to do pre-order."

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Business partner Jamie Daniels, 30, with owner Bex Smith, 36  (Image: Charles Elliman) The name 'Two Hands' does not have a deep and intricate meaning. Bex said it's simply because you need two hands to eat a good sandwich.

The Chronicle asked Bex if she was concerned with the level of competition in Winchester, especially following the closure of the independent bakery Winchester Bakery.

The entrepreneur said her shop was targeting the trade of coffee chains and supermarkets where people buy sandwiches for lunch.

Bex said: "There was a gap in the market for a really, really good, premium, sandwich. Everything has really good quality ingredients - we're using lots of local suppliers."

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People from across town came for the launch, including other business owners who wanted to give their support.

The Chronicle tried the coronation chicken sandwich, Bex's personal favourite and divided it up back in our office where our team thoroughly enjoyed it.

Although we received it for free the sandwich would usually cost £7.50, which we thought was about right considering the size and quality.

The prices of the sandwiches range from £5 to £9.50. The cheapest is their egg, mayo and cress option, whilst the most expensive are 'specials', such as the mortadella-filled Italian.

As well as sandwiches, homemade cookies are on offer along with coffee sourced from River Coffee Roasters based in Alresford.