WHEN a former supply teacher switched the classroom for a Stockton Heath ice cream parlour she could not be blamed for expecting a frosty start to her new career.

But Helen Harvey, owner of Pure Indulgence, on London Road, has eased into her new role in the past 12 months.

The 51-year-old former Stockton Heath Primary School supply teacher is now looking ahead to the store's first birthday next Wednesday.

"I did not really expect the store to do so well but really hoped that it would work out," she said.

"All I had done before this was teaching so it was not easy.

"The best bit about it has been seeing the lovely people walk through the doors and we also have a lot of regular customers, which is great.

"People are coming from quite far and wide – it is amazing."

Pure Indulgence is currently running a competition giving customers the chance to design their own crepe, waffle or sundae to mark the milestone event.

The winner of the challenge, which comes to an end on October 18, will be invited to sample their new creation and see it added to the store's special board.

"We started up with a small menu but have extended it more and more and now we want to give the customers this chance to get something they want on the specials board," added Helen.

Competition forms will be provided with any purchase in the shop and the winner will also get the chance to suggest the name of the new dish.