Joy Mahoney and daughter Cariad who recently moved their dog grooming business to the main shopping area of Blaenavon town, are delighted with their new business premises.

Joy's shop occupies one of the retail units within two major blocks of residential and commercial properties which received major renovation and restoration works costing more than £1.4m and funded by Torfaen council.

Joy's decision to move to Blaenavon was down to the area offering a location and quality business premises which was in easy reach for her customers, who come from all over Gwent.

She is fully qualified in dog grooming and has made up six champions at various high-profile dog shows. The business provides a luxury pampering which every pooch would wish for. Joy said: "My customers receive only the very best treatment. "We offer an exceptional package including free services such as nail clipping and ear cleaning. We also provide help and advice on health care of your dog." The business also offers a pick up and drop off service for customers. Joy, pictured here with Jerry, has been providing his owners from Abersychan with her services for more than 20 years. Jerry's owner said: "I wouldn't trust many people with my dog but Joy I have complete confidence in. "You only have to look at him to see how good they are." Joy teaches two days a week at Bridgend College and also provides students with hands-on training in her shop.

Haley Murdock, who travels from Wiltshire to receive extra training, said: "It's the only way to learn, I love working with the animals, it's a privilege to work with Joy in her parlour and I know I am getting the very best training experience."