A FAMILY who have taken over a florist are confident their new business will flourish.

Mother and daughter Janet and Lucy Salmon have bought the former Secret Garden flower shop, in Fountain Street, Leek.

They have taken over from Marie Edge who took the difficult decision to retire earlier this year after suffering health problems.

The pair have renamed the shop Blossoms. They were handed the keys at the end of last month.

Janet Salmon, originally from Ipstones but now living in Forsbrook, said: "It seemed like too good an opportunity to miss.

"We are delighted to be here and are very enthusiastic about running the business."

Janet, who is employed by Moorlands Housing, will be a sleeping partner but will help out in the shop on Saturdays.

Staff member Michelle Sidebottom, who worked for Ms Edge, has been asked to continue.

Janet, aged 53, said: "Lucy and Michelle make a great team. The shop is in a great position with parking outside and we are looking forward to a very exciting future."

The trio have already started expanding the business and are now offering wedding bouquets and floral tributes for funerals.

They attended a wedding fair at The Three Horseshoes, in Blackshaw Moor, last weekend where they obtained several big orders.

Janet – who hopes to replace the shop front in the next financial year – added: "Internal improvements are in progress.

"We are small in terms of size but plenty big enough to cope with large orders."

Lucy, who is studying for her City and Guilds in floristry, said it had always been an ambition to start up a business in Leek.

The 26-year-old, who now lives in Cheadle, said: "I grew up in the Staffordshire Moorlands and have always wanted to lay roots here.

"I am really looking forward to working with my mother. We are confident we can build up a successful business."

Michelle has qualifications in art, design and floristry.

The 24-year-old, from Ladderedge, said: "Lucy and Janet are very enthusiastic about the business.

"They have brought a breath of fresh air and I am looking forward to the future."

Ms Edge, who had been at the helm of the shop for five years, thanked her loyal customers.

She said: "I wish the new owners all the joy, pleasure and success."

Blossoms deliver flowers for free across Leek.