A FLORIST who set up her business less than a year ago has been named best in her category at an awards ceremony.

Salisbury Flower Shed's success was recognised at England's Business Awards in Bristol last Sunday, September 24.

Sue Ford's business, which opened on October 3, 2022, won awards for best new business and best florist in Wiltshire.

The 57-year-old, from Bishopdown, will now go on to represent the county at the annual national grand final held in Birmingham in November.

Salisbury Journal: Susan was 'gobsmacked' to win the best new business award.Susan was 'gobsmacked' to win the best new business award. (Image: England's Business Awards)

Sue was shocked and surprised when she was nominated for the best florist award but "gobsmacked" to be named the best new business in Wiltshire since she wasn't told about it until the award was given to her.

The business's first year has gone well and Sue has found herself becoming busier as her shop is recommended to more people across Wiltshire.

Sue worked in Shirley Snells Florist for five years before deciding to go solo. She said: "It's always a gamble to start a new business but I feel like I've had a good year.

"I'm always busy but to get an award goes to show that all the long hours have paid off."

Salisbury Journal: Salisbury Flower Shed has been open almost a year.Salisbury Flower Shed has been open almost a year. (Image: Susan Ford)

Sue believes her customer service has put her above the competition and being situated in Old Sarum has been a boon for the business.

"It's a good location up here because people don't need to go into town and find somewhere to park if they want to visit," she said.

To celebrate the business's one year since opening, Sue is throwing a party for her customers at Salisbury Flower Shed (59G Old Sarum Park) on Tuesday, October 3, between 6pm and 9pm.