Fredericks Chocolates boasts 500 varieties of sweets, chocolate pizza making parties and handmade chocolates in every conceivable shape and size. 

A Titanic shaped treat, complete with its own iceberg, is the latest addition to the selection at the Southampton shop, a hidden gem which has been doing business in The Marlands since 2008.

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It's been added to a host of other creations, everything from superheroes to wizarding characters and from animals to fashion accessories. There's even Mrs Lickman's apple crumble-flavoured treats, named after a late much-loved customer who would bring her homegrown apples into the shop.

That's not to mention the almost 500 jars filled with everything retro, sour, or chewy.

Gobstoppers to gummies, and traditional to modern, there's a sweet fix for everyone at Fredericks, named after relatives.

"Fifteen years and we are still asked everyday – how long have you been here?" laughs Jan Willmott, who runs the shop with her husband Mark. 

The couple left the worlds of commercial insurance and IT consultancy to fulfil their dream of running their own business. 

The shop, originally opposite, moved to its current location in April 2009. It has gone from strength to strength ever since, winning awards for its lemon burst chocolate and creamy vanilla fudge. 

"We pride ourselves on our vast range of sweets and have something for everyone," added Jan.

"We have learnt a lot. Some sweets have disappeared but then came back as demand grew such as Kopp Kops and Iced Caramels.

"Whether you are looking for a nostalgic treat such as ABC letters or that sweet you can’t quite remember the name of, we hope you will find what you are looking for."

It's a real family affair for Jan and Mark, who between them have four sons who have all worked in the shop over the years. 

It's not just Christmas, Easter and Mother's Day when they're busy. Fudge is popular all year round, in winter customers love the liquorice or marzipan treats while summer is a time for fruity bon bons.  

The cafe side of the business is renowned for its toasties and sundaes containing New Forest Ice Cream. 

Chocolate pizza making events are beloved for children's birthdays and hen parties and chocolate truffle making is also a popular activity.