Florist has 'looked after town' for 100 years

A family-run florist which has played a part "in so many people's lives" is celebrating 100 years in business.

June the Florist was opened in 1925 by Bessie Eaton and is now ran by her grandson Peter Eaton and his wife Liz, who are marking the occasion by asking customers to share memories and photographs of the shop.

Peter and Liz said: "We have played such a part in so many people's lives over many years, we would really love everyone to be part of our history together.

"We owe a huge debt to all the dedicated and talented employees that have worked alongside us over many years as a family business."

Peter said he was brought up in the shop and ed ladies parking outside in chauffer driven cars and collecting their flowers for the weekend.

"I being here throughout my youth because my family worked here seven days-a-week and at that time there was no such thing as childcare," he said.

"I had to come along with my parents and grandparents and spend my very early days in the shop which I have to say was a wonderful experience."

Liz met Peter when she was 14 and worked as a Saturday girl in the shop. She officially ed the business in the 80s after she and Peter had their first chid.

"Southport was a booming town and we had the most amazing clientele," she said.

"It was such a good time because in the 80s the high street was busy, everyone was shopping.

"We had such beautiful hotels and venues and everyone had big weddings so flowers were fabulous way to fill these big spaces."

The shop got its name after Bessie's daughter June, who went onto become very involved with the running of the shop too.

Both Bessie and June were heavily involved with the Southport Flower Show, where they served on the committee for many years and achieved the title 'Best In Show' five times.

Bessie was also a founding member of the Interflora network, which is now an internationally recognised flower delivery service.

"She created quite a difference in the industry," Peter said.

The team are inviting customers to them for the centenary celebration at the Lord Street shop on Saturday between 14:00 BST until 17:00 BST.

"I know quite a few old of staff are coming in and they're bringing their photographs. It's going to be interesting to see old faces that we've not seen for many years." Peter added.

"The success of this business for 100 years is based purely on the wonderful people who've worked for us and the wonderful clientele who have been so loyal to us for 100 years.

"It's been a privilege to look after the town for so many years as a family I don't think there's many family businesses that keep going for a 100 years anymore so we're very proud of it. It's a team event no doubt.

"Bessie would have expected nothing less."

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