AN Ealing woman has set up an online sweet shop in order to 'cheer people up during the pandemic'.

Louise Powell, who lives in South Ealing, is the proud owner of Chomp Sweets that was set up in September.

She told Nub News: "I'm always full of ideas and during the pandemic I had a light bulb moment and got the idea of starting a sweets business.

"I thought to myself, 'what do I need as a pick me up,' and the answer was sweets, so I thought that would resonate with lots of people."

The mum-of-two chose the name Chomp because she claims she doesn't eat sweets elegantly, 'I just scoff them down', she said.

She described her new business as: "Elevating pick n mix sweets to a boutique status, bringing something retro to modern times."

Powell, who grew up in Ealing, remembers going with her family to get sweets when she was a kid and loves the feelings she experienced at that age.

"I had such a great time getting sweets every Friday, it was a tradition and I want to bring that back and help people enjoy those moments as a family too," she added.

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She works primarily with local and UK producers and gets everything sent to her home.

She said: "My daughters and I prepare all the orders and always make sure to have beautiful packaging, as first impressions make an enormous difference and people like to see you've made an effort."

Powell, who used to work as an NHS manager, has released Christmas Chomps in time for the holidays as well.

"Sweets are always very popular during the Christmas period and people are absolutely loving them.

"They can either choose from our suggested selections or pick n mix themselves."

She hopes that the business carries on going well and that she'll soon be able to expand and get a small office.

"I have two daughters, four dogs, three cats and a husband at home, it can get pretty hectic, sometimes I need to lock the room where the sweets are so that the stock doesn't go mysteriously missing," she added.