THE team behind a Stanford-le-Hope business have been blooming in their new home this week after a location switch.

For many decades Swallows Florists in Stanford-le-Hope, named after original owner Jack Swallow who opened the shop in 1970, has been based at premises on The Green, adjacent to the town's war memorial.

However, over the weekend owner Wendy Anderson and her team relocated a few yards down the adjacent High Street and are now settling in to their new home in the precinct.

Swallows' new shop.

Wendy says: "I took over the business from Jack 25 years ago and he stayed with us for a while, he was a lovely fella and I'm sure many remember him.

"We decided on the move and are really pleased with where we are now, there's been a great response with lots of people popping in to see us. We look forward to serving the people of Stanford for many more years."

News of the move brought a historic surprise for Wendy when a customer, popping in to have a look at the new shop, brought in a News Extra newspaper from 21 November, 1974 - its 19th edition after being one of the first 'free distribution' newspapers to be launched. It was a rival to the long-established Thurrock Gazette and launchd by Grays-based Twainstar Limited.

"I don't remember the News Extra at all' said Wendy, " but it's interesting to see all the borough businesses in it and nice to know that Swallows is still going after all that time."