Seven is widely considered a lucky number and so it has proved for a tile business that has now expanded into Helston.

Former Helston town councillor Niall Devenish and his wife Emma have run The Tile Collection, based at Longrock near Penzance, for the past seven years but have now opened a second branch in their home town.

Based in Wendron Street, in a former angling shop, the outlet is being run by Emma’s brother, Gary Lake. It sells a range of wall and floor tiles, from porcelain to ceramic and natural stone to terracotta and glass.

Mr Devenish said that, despite a difficult economy, the success of the Longrock branch meant it was possible to expand the business.

He believed this was due to every customer being treated as an individual, with staff catering to their needs rather than just selling them the latest package or fashion.

Mr Devenish said: “As a result we get a lot of our business from recommendations and because of our great personal service This has given us a great start and the platform to launch our expansion. It was also why we asked Gary to join us to run our Helston shop as we know he will offer the same high level of customer service for us in Helston.”

Mr Lake said it was an exciting opportunity for him.

“As a family we are all very proud of what Niall and Emma have achieved since they started the Tile Collection, so for me to be given the chance to be part of it and help to contribute to its continued growth was one not to miss.

“I look forward to welcoming the people of Helston and helping them with their tiling needs.”