A couple of entrepreneurs are putting out the balloons to celebrate the opening of their one-stop party shop in Braintree this month.

Helen and Stephen Stewart aim to stock a wide range of party products at the Party Pavilion in Market Street.

The couple, from Burnham, already have plans to expand the business.

"If this works, our store will be the first of many across the country," said Mrs Stewart.

They are considering franchises to extend the range of party shops, starting initially with market towns in Essex.

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