FLORISTS trained in secret as they plotted a surprise shop opening amid the coronavirus crisis.

Hailsham gift and homeware store Maybugs has defied the economic gloom and launched a new flower shop next door.

Flowers By Maybugs was officially opened by MP Nus Ghani and the Mayor and Mayoress of Hailsham last Tuesday.

John Dale and Greg Rose, the couple behind it, have been planning the venture for over a year now.

They opened Maybugs in the Vicarage Field shopping centre in 2018, and were chuffed to see the flower shop’s doors swing open last week.

Greg said: “It’s all a bit surreal really. We’ve secretly been in training as florists for a long time now, and even our families didn’t know what we were up to.

“It’s been such a big secret to keep, but we wanted it to be a huge surprise.

“Plus with all the negative retail news, we are so excited to be bringing some positivity to Hailsham High Street, and get the message out there that our high street is alive and kicking.

“Hailsham has so many wonderful independent businesses, and it always surprises me how few residents know about them all.”

He added: “Flowers by Maybugs is not your ordinary florist. We source the freshest and most beautiful flowers from around the world and arrange them into gorgeous displays using the latest styles and techniques.

“Not only that, but we also have a huge selection of the finest silk and dried flowers available to purchase.

“We can work to any budget, so whether you’re planning the wedding of the century or just want a little bunch to brighten up your kitchen we can help.

“Plus we can send our flowers, arranged by us, anywhere in the country the very next day, we will never pass your order onto another florist.”

The Mayor of Hailsham Councillor Paul Holbrook said: “It’s such a delight to see a new business opening in our town. It’s the second in two days, and we have so few empty shops now in Hailsham.

“I’m so pleased to be opening this gorgeous florist today in the Vicarage Field shopping centre. They have so many beautiful real and silk flowers. I wish Flowers by Maybugs the very best of luck.”

Co-owner John Dale said: “As well as beautiful bouquets for all kinds of occasions, we specialise in events.

“Since announcing Flowers by Maybugs was opening we have already had several weddings booked for next year, and lots of enquiries.

“Because we are new, at the moment do we have lots of summer Saturdays still available, which for a florist is unusual, so now is the time to book a wedding consultation and secure your date with us.

“Of course we also cater for the sympathy market too. We will give every care and attention to our sympathy tributes.

“We really do see it as one of the most special things we can do for someone’s loved one as their final gesture. It really is an honour to do this final act during someone’s saddest and most difficult of moments.”

Flowers by Maybugs is open from Monday to Saturday, 8am to 5pm.