ONE of new Thurrock mayor Cllr Sue Shinnick's first jobs proved to be something sweet today (Friday, 23 May) as she gave her support to a new business venture.

Cllr Shinnick was at Tyrells Hall Club in Little Thurock to mark the launch of a new business by Chadwell St Mary woman Michaela Beaumont, called The Sweet Box by Kandy Kayla.

The idea for her business venture was born in the pandemic and has now become a reality.

Kandy Kayla is a mobile shop, created from a former horse trailer, and it will be attending fetes, fairs and events across the community.

Michaela explains how her dream came about, saying: "It started in lockdown, making bouquets with chocolate bars as gifts. We added sweets at a later date after I was made redundant and have been pretty successful operating from home.

"We are now almost at our fifth birthday we wanted a shop but the rents and rates are crazy high!

"So we thought hard, and we have now created our mobile shop. We bought a horse trailer four months ago and had it insulated and fitted to high standard including running hot water etc.

Michaela and the Mayor.

"We are available for parties and events.

"The business has been inspected by the council and holds a five star food safety rating from them, which is important  to us 

"Now I'm so looking forward to taking it onto the road and I am very grateful to Cllr Shinnick for making it official and Tyrells Hall for hosting our launch."