Ambitious mother-of-two Emma-lea Dalton decided to make a clean sweep when she gave up her job with a Cumbrian finance company.

At 27 she was ready for a new challenge and keen to work in the care sector helping the elderly in the community.

As a mum of toddlers it was difficult for her to work shifts so decided to set up her own company, with the support of family and friends.

My Kind of Clean was launched in April by Emma-lea as a home help service catering for the elderly and professional people who need someone to keep their homes in tip-top condition.

Emma-lea, who worked as a revenues officer with Barrow firm Liberata before leaving earlier this year, said: "Although I enjoyed my job I really wanted to help others and felt a caring role would be more suitable.

"However, when you work in the care sector you are asked to work shifts, which isn't suitable for me as a mother."

Emma-lea was supported by family and the community in Arrad Foot, near Ulverston, where she lives with husband Jamie and daughters, two-and-a-half Alba-Lily and Elva-Rose who is 19 months old.

She works full-time with Claire Robinson while her mum Jane Hodgson covers holidays. She also has another member of staff.

"Our elderly often struggle and need help to carry out certain tasks incuding cleaning.

"I then decided that I would offer other home-help services such as general housekeeping, shopping, errand running, light gardening and help with pets," she added."

Emma-lea said helping the elderly meant they could stay independent in their homes for longer. They also enjoyed the companionship.

"We offer a take me shopping service to help those who would like to do this themselves but struggle on their own," she said.

"We also have an assistance with pets service which goes hand-in-hand with our companionship service. This allows our clients get out and about with their dogs if they so wish with help and company.

"The business arose from a true desire to help our elderly and this will always remain our main focus.

"My family has been amazing, helping with childcare and even providing business advice."