A shop owner who started his business with redundancy money is to mark a year of trading.

Kevin Taylor launched Taylor's Cards in The Broadway, Debden, after the Clinton’s Card branch he managed was closed after the firm went into administration.

The 49-year-old was also able to offer jobs to his former colleagues.

“It was always going to be a risk but one I thought was worth taking,” he said.

Mr Taylor admitted it had been a difficult year but thanked his customers for their loyalty.

He said: “The local community has been fantastic. The amount of support has been absolutely amazing. Without them there would be no shop.

“The people round this area are second to none.”

There will be a celebration of the anniversary at the premises on Thursday, with a champagne reception from 10am.