An Eden woman who opted for redundancy rather than relocate away from Cumbria has turned a casual hobby into a full time business.
Mary-Anne Sadler of Murton, near Appleby, was a home-based customer service advisor with digital audio technology firm Flare Audio.
But when the company decided it wanted all home workers to move to its south coast head office, Mary-Anne was left with a difficult choice.
“I loved the job as it was interesting, varied, and I was dealing with customers from right across the world, but after a number of family meetings we decided Cumbria was too good to leave,” she said.
Initially the 51-year-old mother of two began applying for other jobs, but then friends and family who have benefited from her long held chiropody skills suggested she give it a go full time.
And so ‘Neat Feet’ was born and the Eden Valley client list is growing fast.
Mary-Anne, who visits clients in their own home, said: “I qualified in foot care 15 years ago but it has only ever been a casual hobby and I never thought about making a career out of it.
“But it is proving immensely enjoyable and is a great way of getting out and about in the community and meeting people. It is very satisfying to help people out with any foot problems they have and also to have a good natter as well.
“Many of my clients are elderly and it is fascinating to hear their tales of Eden life over the years”.
Mary-Anne is also qualified in Indian Head Massage and Swedish Massage and has just added those skills to offer an all round peripatetic pamper package.
She exclusively uses Temple Spa products for the massages, which she sources from the well-known businesswoman, Jackie Kirkpatrick of Appleby.
Although relatively late to the self-employed world, Mary-Anne is absolutely convinced the decision to shun the south is the right one. Her sons Joss, 15, and Ethan, 13, are settled at Appleby Grammar School, while husband Ian, 51, is a driver with Appleby firm Robinsons Coaches.
She said: “To live and work in such a beautiful part of Britain is just fantastic and I am extremely happy to be doing the things I love.”
Mary-Anne Sadler can be contacted on 017683 53765 or 07769 685754
[email protected]
