Two sisters have got together to open a gift and card shop on Victoria Square, Skipton.

Julie Wilmore and Louise Smith, who are in their 30s, have launched Adora Gift – named after the Greek girls’ name meaning precious gift.

Originally from Nelson, they decided to look for premises in Skipton because it is a place they love.

Louise said: “Our parents used to bring us when we were little and it’s somewhere we have always visited up until 18 months ago when Julie moved here.

“One of the best things about Skipton is the diversity of the shops and it’s really worth people exploring the side streets and archways off the high street as there are some real hidden treasures.

“As neither of us have ever run our own business before we are extremely grateful for all the support we have received. The other businesses on Victoria Square have been really welcoming there is a real sense of community between all the shops there.”

The sisters decided to venture into the business world after Julie was offered voluntary redundancy from her job as a leisure centre manager.

“We decided now would be a great time to fulfil a dream,” said Julie. “Louise quit her job at the Post Office where she had worked for 10 years and we started looking for premises in Skipton.