A YOUNG businesswoman has returned to town after finding success in Taunton at a young age.

Beccie Woods, 26, reopened her dog salon on Monday, February 4, at a new premises in East Reach.

Her new venture follows from success she had when she was just 18 years old with her Station Road dog salon, Boni and Guy.

At age 21, Miss Woods won an award in the Local Business Accelerators initiative, which was backed by your County Gazette.

As part of her prize, she was given business mentoring and advertising for her company, which saw her success double and she was able to open another location in Ilminster.

But, after finding success at such a young age and needing a break, she decided to go travelling around the world.

She said: “Everything got too fast, so I decided to go travelling. I needed a break.

“I got back around two years ago and I realised I maybe shouldn’t have sold my business, so I started again from home.

“Now I’ve come back and put a bit of a spin on it, with a focus on luxury care for dogs.

“I’m the only award-winning groomer in town and I am also fully qualified. You don’t have to be in this industry but I wanted to make sure I was if the regulations change.”

Upon her return, with the slightest bit of regret for letting it all go, she hit the ground running again to get her business thriving - but at a slower pace this time around.

She added: “I never stopped dog grooming, I always carried on doing it. Now I’ve got the new location and I can’t wait to go for it again.

“I didn’t rush back, I knew I wanted to find the right location. The shop has a bit of parking at the back and a loading bay at the front, so clients don’t have to walk through town with their dogs.”

Appointments can be made by calling 07757719128. In the future, the talented dog groomer also hopes to offer training courses and classes to help owners maintain their pooch’s pampered looks.

Beccie is no stranger to the furry friends, owning a houseful of miniature schnauzers herself. She also shows at competitions such as Crufts.

“I love being with the dogs, I’ve grown up around them,” she said.

“It all started with my nan, she showed dogs, then my mum, so it’s a family thing. I’m the third generation to show dogs.

“It’s a sad time as my nan recently passed away but I hope she’s proud of what I’ve achieved.”