A Cockermouth garden centre is open once more, a month after the death of owner John Hughes.

At the helm are John’s partner, Susan Southworth, who used to work alongside him in Oakhurst Garden Centre, and his daughter, Nanette Doldsworth.

“We opened this week as normal and stock all the usual lines including hazelnuts for the squirrels. Lots of people have been in and are so happy to see the place open again,” said Nanette.

“We wanted to honour my dad’s empire – and keep the squirrels happy!”

Mr Hughes, 72, who set up the garden centre nearly 40 years ago, died after a heart attack at his home on Lamplugh Road.

“The business was his life. He hardly ever left it – unless he was going round the world on his motorbike!” said Ms Southworth.

Mr Hughes’ love of motorbikes had seen him travel the world. He had been due to set off on a road trip in Tibet.