Business idea was a gift for creative Padiham woman passionate about animal welfare and protecting the planet

And while the height of a pandemic may not seem the ideal time to leave your job to launch your own business, Elle knew the time was right for her to follow her dream... although she wasn't sure exactly what that was when she handed in her notice as administration support for a care agency.

"It was now or never," said Elle."I always had a plan that one day I would work for myself but I just had to come up with an idea."

It was while she was wrapping gifts that Elle's partner, Alan Pye, complimented her on how professional it looked and she should consider offering to do it for family and friends.

That was the 'lighbulb' moment for Elle and within a couple of weeks Rustic Wrapping was launched.

Offering a gift wrapping service Elle, of Padiham, also makes party and tree decorations and 'party packs' for all occasions including Christmas, birthday parties, weddings, christenings and other landmark events.

Committed to sustainability, Elle uses all natural materials, including biodegradable wool for her hand-made bows, paper that can be re-cycled and paper tape to wrap presents. She is also appealing for any donations of fabric and ribbon she can upcycle.

Elle then plans to donate any profits made on the donated items to animal charities with Burnley's Horse and Ponies Protection Assocation (HAPPA) at the top of the list.

Both animal lovers Elle and Alan make regular visits and donations to HAPPA and last year they welcomed two new additions to their home in the form of Betty and Freddy, two Lionhead Angora rabbits.

The caring couple rescued both animals as their owners no longer wanted them and now the cuddly duo have taken over their home!

Elle, who went to the former Sunnybank Primary School in Burnley and Clitheroe's Moorland High School, said: "We adore them. Betty came first and then, when we were offered Freddy we couldn't say no.

"He has tried to get close to Betty but she is having none of it at the moment."

Intelligent, social and easily trained the fluffy duo live in the couple's home as, when Elle researched the breed, it stated how vital free roaming was for them to thrive.

Elle added:" A lot of people think you get a rabbit and put it in a hutch and feed it and that's it but there is so much more to caring for it than that.

"I would love to raise awareness of this."

Elle was thrilled to learn last week that Rustic Wrapping has been accepted to sell on Amazon hand-made and she is also showcasing her work at Seasons Craft and Coffee shop on Kierby Walk, Burnley and Whalley based bakery E Bella where Elle will host a 'pop up' present wrapping service from noon to 4pm from December 17th to 23rd.