Third generation of florist takes over Sutton flower shop

Laura Bacon, aged 39, is the proud new owner of Flowers by Lesley,iwhich has been in Sutton for nearly 35 years.

The shop, in Jubilee Buildings, Outram Street, was previously owned by Lesley Armson, who decided to sell the business and semi-retire.

Laura said: “I started working at Lesley's when I was aged about 19.

“I always loved floristry, but have struggled all my life with a debilitating health condition, so had to give up floristry for an office job and worked for the NHS for 12 years.

“Feeling dissatisfied, I jokingly offered to buy the shop from Lesley and after a few seconds thinking about it, we agreed it was an excellent idea for both of us.

“Lesley wanted to remain working at the shop, but without the stress of running it, so she is semi-retiring.

“I am a third generation florist local to Sutton. I grew in my mum and dad's flower shop in Mansfield and after studying floristry at college, I worked in most florists shops in the area and taught floristry at college.

“My grandma and grandad also had a florist two doors down from Flowers by Lesley about 50 years ago, which Lesley remembers visiting as a little girl.”

Laura, who has Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, a genetic condition which affects her ligaments, said: “I still have to be careful of my physical limits, but I have a wonderful team around me every day, along with the rest of our ‘flower family’ who give their time and support, which has given me the best start I could have hoped for.

“I also have so many loyal customers which is so lovely and the news of the sale has been received with heartwarming responses for both Lesley and me.

“For the future, myself, Lesley and the whole team will continue to provide a high standard of floristry and customer service.

“We plan to have a website and app with online ordering and the shop will be refitted. We also have a new logo and possibly a relaunch planned for some time this year.”