A BARROW massage business has grown during its year of trading to build a relationship with several prominent groups in the area.

Maria McLaughlin’s Massage by Maria was founded in October 2021 and has recently become a sponsor for Barrow Raiders.

The popular holistic massage business has enjoyed success in the area and is built from the knowledge of Maria who is also a teacher at Walney Primary School.

Massage by Maria has also recently made a contract with Dunes Hotel to have her massages included in their special offers.

Maria said: “I started the business last year in October.

“I’ve always been interested in holistic therapy for a long time. My mum did a lot of courses so I always had an interest.

“I’ve been teaching for fifteen years and I had a post in teaching before covid which I eventually left.

“I did some supply work in Barrow but it was a bit slow due to Covid so I wanted to move on.

“This has kept me busy and I wanted to keep learning. I saw there were some courses coming up at Furness College as a night course.

“Got onto that Swedish massage course level three which went really well, so I took it from there.

“Outside of this I am also a teacher at Walney Primary School where I teach years one and two.

“I’ve absolutely loved doing this, and it all happens from home.

“It is my little haven of paradise.

“Massages are in big demand in the area and I’ve got a client list of over 300 people which keeps me busy.

“I worked at Barrow Raiders as a volunteer for a few years, and I’ve got to know the men’s and women’s teams.

“We came up with the special offer for players and we did a sponsorship package as well.

“Not so long ago I got a contract with the Dunes Hotel and they will be offering deals with the massages in their wedding packages and contractors, and that type of thing.”