By Matthew Legg Business editor

Last updated at 09:57, Friday, 10 July 2009

A Cumbrian dairy farmer’s daughter has launched a business she hopes will blossom despite the recession.

The Flower Bank team, front, kneeling, Helen Wilson; second row, kneeling, from left, Nikki Graham and Angela Marsh; standing, from left, Julia Lawman, Liz Osborne and Susan Stamper

Helen Wilson has formed The Flower Bank, a wholesale flower company, which she will run from premises on her father’s Bankdale Farm near Wreay, Carlisle.

The company will supply florist shops throughout Cumbria and Scotland.

Helen, 36, said: “It has always been my ambition to run my own business and this opportunity felt right as I’ve always loved flowers.”

Carlisle, with its good transport links to Scotland and northern England is the perfect home for the business, said Helen.

“Being so close to the M6 is a real boon as getting fresh flowers to the customers in pristine condition is essential,” she said.

The business is a new diversion for Helen, who worked previously for breed society Holstein UK as a shows and events co-ordinator. She added: “I travelled all over Europe and Canada, organising international competitions and attending conferences but I’ve always been a bit of a home bird,” she said. Cumbria is a great place to live and work and

“The Flower Bank means I still get to travel a lot but at the end of each working day I’m back at home.

“I’ve got a fantastic team working with me and everyone is geared up for the official launch later this month.”

The business will employ eight people, including well-known florist and designer Susan Stamper. She said: “I worked in several florist shops in Carlisle before owning and running my own business in the covered market.

“Now I am really excited about helping to make The Flower Bank the number one supplier in the region.

“Everyone is excited about the challenge of growing the business over the next few years.”

A grand opening of the company’s new purpose-built headquarters, which includes large refrigerated units for storing a wide range of fresh flowers, has been organised for customers on Sunday, July 19.

Added Helen: “It’s an opportunity for florists in the region to see what we have to offer.

“There will also be demonstrations from internationally-renowned floral specialists.”

First published at 05:12, Friday, 10 July 2009
Published by http://www.cumberlandnews.co.uk