As part of our series on finding out what makes the people who work in town tick, the Manchester Evening News spoke to florist Eloise Evans.
Eloise works in Flourish, off Market Street, which brings an oasis of nature in an area dominated by the greys and beiges of tired walls and paving slabs. The city centre stall is tucked away behind the Market Street Metrolink stop - but well worth a visit.
On the morning we spoke to her, Eloise is the symbol of the resurgence in interest in all things plants. With so many city centre residents renting flats, houseplants are becoming their own slice of paradise - in the way that a white picket fence is for the American dream.
Eloise is wearing practical boots on the day we see her, but styles it out with some ridiculously fashionable pink sunglasses and matching ear rings. Here's what she thinks of Manchester...
- Where’s your favourite hidden gem?
This and That, that’s a hidden gem.
- What’s your favourite view of the city or in the city?
I like Ancoats, and it’s nice looking at the cobbled streets there and the old buildings and mills.
- Where’s best to go for your dinner in town?
I love the Koffee Pot. So good and quite cheap.
- Where would you take someone to show them the real Manchester?
I’d probably take them to Hatch, and then maybe Northern Quarter. Stevenson Square.
- What’s your favourite Mancunian neighbourhood?
I live in Ancoats, so I have to say that.
- City or United?
City.
- Your favourite city pub is…?
I love Guillivers.
- Liam or Noel?
Neither, can I say that? Yeah, neither.
- Who is your favourite city ‘character’?
Ian, who works here. People call him the 'crazy plant guy'. He kind of looks like Jesus. He brings a lot of joy to a lot of people.
- What are the five words that best describe the city?
Trendy, artistic, dirty, friendly, and vibrant.
- What’s the one thing you’d add to Manchester if you could…
More parks and green spaces. Please, it’s what we need. The Central Retail Park needs to be a park.
READ NEXT:
- The best new restaurants opening in August in Manchester
- The sunflower meadow to visit now with sunflower ice creams to buy too
- Michael Owen hosts homecoming party for daughter Gemma after Love Island and jaws drop at mansion
- Manchester Pride 2022 - everything you need to know
- The stunning Peak District waterfall ideal for a day trip from Manchester
