Laois community in sadness as business closes after 30 years

A Laois community is expressing sadness at the closure of a local shop after almost 30 years.

Yvonnes Florist on Emmett Street in Mountmellick has announced it is closing down.

The shop in which it is based is being turned into a bookmakers office. Boyle Sports is relocating from its office on Patrick Street to emcompass the florists and the former bookies next door, Harringtons. Read in full below.

The award winning independent florists had served surrounding areas such as Emo, The Rock, Rosenallis, Clonaslee, Clonaghadoo, Kilcavan, Portlaoise, Killenard, The Heath, Portarlington, Killeagh, Geashill, Tullamore and the Slieve Bloom.

The proprietor Yvonne made her announcement on Sunday, May 21.

"This has been very difficult to write it’s taken all day! After almost 30 wonderful years (from O’Connell square to where we are now) of serving the community of mountmellick and surrounding areas Yvonne’s florist will be closing our doors one final time on Wednesday 24th May.

"We would like to take this opportunity to thank each and everyone of you for your custom and support and trusting us with your family occasions over the years. It was a pleasure and privilege to be apart of your special occasions. We have made many many friends

"I would like to thank our lovely neighbours on Emnett street and on o’ Moore street over the past number of years for looking after us at Christmas time with food and drinks and other busy periods throughout the years. You know who you are. It really meant the world to us. We will miss you.

"Finally I’d like to thank my family for coming with me on this journey. A special word of thanks to my right hand woman, Hazel you were just mighty. A great girl for putting up with me over the years! LOETB are so lucky to have you. Caoimhe, Áine Mairèad and James thank you for all your hard work. xx

"From the bottom of my heart a massive thank to you all for your support over the years. Yvonne xx"

Over 130 messages of support followed overnight from the community.

Let African fun uplift you Portlaoise on Laois Africa Day

"Devastated! You all have been amazing and have been with us every step of our life journey, from our wedding day to valentines to birthdays, anniversary, and u always knew never to put chrysanthemums in my bouquets. 
Your mam even made my debs orchid (showing my age) . Adrian says he only ever got me flowers to go in and see you and hazel. May luck follow you all forever. Thank you for everything x" one customer said.

Laois florist to be turned into betting shop

"This is so sad. another brilliant shop lost from the town. I remember your lovely Mam and Dad in the square. You're shop was always a bright beacon coming down the town. Best wishes Yvonne in the future. You'll be sadly missed," another customer said.

"The town will be at a huge loss Yvonne. Emmett St... will not be the same without you. Thank you & your beautiful family for all the years of Fantastic service with a smile... including flowers for my own wedding & all major events since .... I know you loved your job & the people of Mountmellick & surrounding areas.... so I can only imagine how difficult this decision has been for you. Thank you so much. You are one in a million," anothe customer wrote.