SHOP bosses Simon and Kirstie Snow have continued a family tradition in Weymouth town centre.

They have opened Snowflakes' for expectant parents four months after Simon's parents shut down the long-established A Snow business.

And, fittingly, their baby son Oscar was on hand for the ceremony after undergoing treatment at the special care baby unit at the Dorset County Hospital in Dorchester.

Helen Hutchinson, who is a junior sister from the unit, performed the honours at the shop in Frederick Place, St Thomas Street. Mr and Mrs Snow's son Oscar was cared for at the unit in March and they are making a donation from Snowflakes in recognition of the care he received.

Simon Snow said: "We are delighted that the Snow family business is alive once again in Weymouth, bringing quality nursery products to local people."

The new Snowflakes is above the former Snows shop, which is opening as a betting shop.

Simon's parents Chris and Carol Snow ran the A Snow shop in Weymouth for more than 40 years until their retirement in January.

His grandparents founded the family business half a century ago.

Snowflakes will be offering free, private consultations when they close the shop to allow customers to browse the store by themselves with advice and help on hand.

Kirstie Snow said: "I'm really excited about the consultation service we're offering as it is something I wish I could have made use of when I was pregnant.

"We hope Snowflakes will help take the stress out of shopping for your new baby."

Snowflakes is also launching a website to boost business.