A GARDEN centre has unveiled plans to expand a craft hub aimed at helping people set up new businesses.

The first phase of the project at Plant R Ross South Hetton Road, Easington, near Peterlee, has been hailed a success.

Assistant manager Andrew Cuthbertson said: “We have three companies on site Verve Flowers, Sugarcraft Sisters and Candy Kingdom.

“After the success of these we have now started Phase 2, which will consist of a further four units centred around a gravel courtyard.

“They will be available from September 1..

Angela Grove, of Sugarcraft Sisters, said “My sister Deborah (Shiel) and I moved into our cabin six weeks ago and we love it.

“Having a shop based in such pretty place, surrounded by beautiful flowers and plants is a breath of fresh air.

“We meet such interesting people every day, from all walks of life.

“The garden centre also hosts twice monthly craft fairs and other events thoughout the year, such as summer fetes and vintage fairs. This introduces new customers to us on a regular basis.”

Ashley Blair of Candy Kingdom said: “We had a fantastic opening week here.

“We have been made very welcome and enjoyed meeting our first customers excited by the new Craft Hub.

“We would like to thank Plants R Ross for the opportunity to open our shop here and for the continued support for local small businesses.

“We look forward to welcoming new traders to the hub very soon.”

There are both long and short-term leases available, at £75 a week, with outside space to accompany the units.

For further information email plantsrross@gmail.com.