Blackburn retailer Leo’s gets ready to roar back (From Lancashire Telegraph)

Blackburn retailer Leo’s gets ready to roar back

10:20am Friday 6th November 2009 in

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ONE of Blackburn’s most famous retailers is making a comeback – a year after being shut by administrators.

Leo’s Carpets was run in Cherry Tree by businessman Leo Flood for almost 40 years before it closed its doors in October 2008.

But now a new store is being opened by Mr Flood’s sons Mark, Simon and Andrew, along with son-in-law Ian Stewart.

Carpets and Flooring by Leo is set to open its doors later this month after the four found new premises in Whalley New Road, Roe Lee, Blackburn.

Mark said: “This is a really exciting venture which we have been planning for some time.

“My father built up a superb reputation and we are going to try to emulate his achievements by providing the best possible levels of service.

“It is very much a family affair and we believe we have a great formula for success across both domestic and contract markets.”

Leo’s Carpets traded in Preston Old Road, Cherry Tree, before it was unexpectedly shut last year after a bank called in £400,000 of debt.

The closure meant 57 workers and sub-contractors lost their jobs, including the four brothers who will run the new outlet.

In his four decades in the carpet business, Mr Flood became one of Blackburn’s most popular business figures, raising hundreds of thousands of pounds for charities.

He said: “To say I am proud by what the lads are doing is a gross understatement.

“What happened to me last year was traumatic, especially the loss of jobs.

“Obviously I wish my sons well and I know they can rely on the support of the East Lanca-shire people with whom I enjoyed such a great relation-ship.”

Last month, the old Leo’s Carpets premises in Preston Old Road were reopened by Clayton-le-Moors businessman Derek Holt.