A new shop aiming to provide the widest selection of cheeses in the country has opened.

Simply called The Cheesemonger, the shop in Central House, High Street, Ongar, opened at the start of October and is run by Keeley Knap, 44.

Around 150 cheeses are currently on offer, from Pecorino to Gouda and Cambozola to Cheddar.

According to Mrs Knap, the selection available is unmatched throughout the county.

“We are unique in this area. There is probably nothing in the whole of Essex that does what we do”, said Mrs Knap.

As well as some hard to find cheeses, The Cheesemonger also features some completely exclusive offers.

Mrs Knap said: “We have a unique cheese at the moment that was specially made for us, Gouda with lavender.

“It’s like the colour of play-doh, but it is very light and floral and it is amazing.”

Mrs Knap is no stranger to the world of cheese, as her husband, Martijn Knap, has sold from a Dutch cheese van called “The Cheesewheeler” for 10 years.

Creating the authentic experience is central to The Cheesemonger.

The whole shop is temperature regulated so no fridges are needed, and customers are encouraged to taste a selection in order to make an informed decision.

Mrs Knap said: “We give tasters so you have a chance to delve into the cheese as part of our service.

“I expect you to have two or three tasters, because otherwise I would not expect you to know what to get.”