A FORMER North-East car dealer who now trades in another type of horse power is celebrating his first year in business.

Mark Tones opened Gee Gee Couture, a horse and country-wear supplies store, at the site of his family’s car showroom, in Stockton Road, Hartlepool, supplying items for riders and their horses including feeds, riding wear, wellies and quilted jackets.

Support from Hartlepool Enterprise Centre means he is to expand the premises and employ someone to handle his booming online business.

His most significant sale is the stunning horse carriage that graced the front of the store, which he sold via the internet to a vineyard in Adelaide, Australia, which now uses it for trips around the property.

Gee Gee Couture is celebrating its anniversary this weekend with a host of special offers.