A FLORIST has celebrated its 35th birthday with its current and previous owners.

Roots and Shoots, in Richmond, started life at a fruit and vegetable shop in Richmond Market Place run by Norman and Angela Bell, and the business was taken over this year by William and Elizabeth Gardner when the Bell's retired.

Mrs Bell said: "We started in the Market Place and stayed there for 12 years, but after that moved to the trading estate to a bigger premises and we started doing flowers too.

"We introduced flowers gradually but it really took off and we supplied them for funerals.

"We retired in April but we were pleased when William bought the business – he had been an employee for many years and has now brought it up to date.

"I visited the shop recently and think it looks fantastic, it is good to know it is in good hands and can continue for many years to come."

Mr Gardner said: "It is going really well. We took over the business in April and aim to deliver the same great service."

Roots and Shoots is at 27 Racecourse Road, Richmond.