LIFE is sweet for a mother-of-four who has opened her own shop selling sugary treats.

Linda Brennan has recently opened the doors to Truly Scrumptious, in Hartburn village, Stockton.

The candy-coloured sweet shop is stocked with jars of sticky favourites and also sells Archer's ice cream, from Darlington, and a selection of handmade home accessories.

"Children do not see sweets like this any more and are loving it, but it is also attracting many older people who remember the sweets from when they were young, like Royale's rhubarb and custard and Everton mints, " she said.

The vintage-inspired confectioner's also offers quirky alternatives to the traditional quarter of sweets or a pick 'n' mix.

For Father's Day children can buy a pretend beer bottle with mini-marshmallows inside, or, instead of a bouquet of flowers, Mrs Brennan's twist is a posy of tissue paper petals filled with chocolates.

"I love coming in here every day, it's great fun and doesn't feel like work, " she added. "Seeing all the children's faces light up when they look around is wonderful."

Truly Scrumptious is open Monday to Saturday, from 10am to 5.30pm, and on Sundays, from 11am to 4.30pm.