Owners 'pour their hearts, souls and piggy banks’ into new Harrogate shop to serves aquatic community

A new shop is opening in Harrogate after “amazing support” from the community to help turn the owners’ dream of having their own business into a reality.

Located at Thirkill Park in Pannal, the idea for Phoenix Aquatics was born nearly a year ago when the aquatic shop Ali Newsham and Ethan Johnson had previously worked in was set to close.

Rather than let the local community lose a vital resource, Ali and Ethan combined their decades of hands‑on experience to create the specialist aquatic store they had always dreamed of.

Ali Newsham said: “We're both really passionate about making aquatics enjoyable, accessible and ethical for beginners and expert hobbyists.

"We have poured our hearts, souls and piggy banks into setting up from scratch and are really excited to welcome more people in to the hobby."

Phoenix Aquatics is a place where reef keepers, aquascapers, pond enthusiasts, amphibian lovers, and complete beginners can all find expert guidance and healthy, responsibly sourced livestock.

The new shop has been shaped not only by its founders but by the community that rallied behind Ali and Ethan, offering support, encouragement, hands‑on help and even funding, to bring Phoenix Aquatics to life, turning it into a shared project built with genuine passion.

"We have had amazing support from our friends, family and loyal customers, practical, emotional and financial, and would like to publicly thank them,” said Ali.

"We now have longer-term plans to work with local schools and offer workshops and work experience, as well as sponsoring community projects."

Phoenix Aquatics aims to set itself apart through its commitment to ethical, sustainable fishkeeping.

The team prioritises long‑term success over quick sales, offering honest advice, transparent guidance, and a wide range of high‑quality equipment, foods, and water treatments.

Customers can also access specialist services including water testing, consultancy, and bespoke 3D‑printed solutions for challenging setups.

The store is open seven days a week, with a late night every Thursday until 8pm.

Customers benefit from easy parking, flat level access throughout the downstairs area, and a dog‑friendly environment complete with water bowls and treats.