A flower shop in the North East has continued to bloom despite strong competition from supermarkets and much bigger retailers in the area.
Leaf, in Victoria Road East, Hebburn, has built up a solid customer base since opening for business in 2003, with people from all over the region regularly ordering flowers and the shop's other products, which include everything from silk flowers to candles and cards .
Owner Jill Burns said the secret of the shops success has been to meet customers' individual needs.
"We do focus on customer care and in responding to people's requests," Mrs Burns said. "If someone wants a particular display at the last minute, or to a tight deadline, we aim to meet those demands."
She explained: "We aim to offer our customers something a little bit different, while also offering value for money ."
"Exotic flowers are growing increasingly popular and we do a lot of wedding bouquets and wired work for displays."
The mum-of-two added that despite "solid" trading, plans to open another shop have been put on hold due to the "current economic climate".
