Knutsford community champion receives High Sheriff award

Community champion Peter Murray, who owns Pulse of Perfumery in Princess Street, has been given an award from the High Sheriff of Cheshire Nicholas Hopkinson.

The accolade recognises the appreciation of residents for all his activities and contribution towards enhancing the life of the community.

"We feel very honoured," said Peter, who runs the business with partner Melanie Seddon. "The High Sheriff came bearing this beautiful gift in all his wonderful regalia complete with a shiny sword.

"We are totally gobsmacked. It came as a complete surprise. We are humbled by the award and feel very lucky to live and have our business based in such a wonderful community."

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The couple invested their life savings to launch their speciality business 10 years ago.

"We took a gamble and sold our home to fund it," said Peter. "Melanie and I have been in the beauty and perfumery industry for the best part of 40 years, supplying retail stores and outlets.

Businessman Peter Murray receives his award from sword-wielding High Sheriff of Cheshire Nicholas Hopkinson

Fun-loving businessman Peter Murray receives his award from sword-wielding High Sheriff of Cheshire Nicholas Hopkinson

"We had to fulfil a dream and belief that we could make a difference in this industry and provide unsurpassed service, knowledge, care and be inclusive not exclusive."

The pair vowed to create a business where everyone can feel relaxed and at home.

"We created an array of brands that appeal to people whatever their budget," said Peter. "We have items for £20 that we gift wrap and put in a beautiful bag so everyone feels special whatever they spend."

Peter has championed the town and raised thousands of pounds for various charities.

The entrepreneur visits schools, clubs, churches and care homes to share his passion for perfume and support different causes.

Peter raised more than £14,000 for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation in 2017 in member of his daughter Danielle who sadly died from the condition in 2002, aged only 18.

The marathon fundraiser festooned 2,000 yellow balloons throughout Knutsford to support Wear Yellow Day.

Peter is renowned for his superb floral window displays to celebrate the annual RHS flower show at Tatton Park.

"People say we lift everyone's spirits," said Peter. "They love our displays and say I am always so chirpy.

"We love living and working here. We are just totally overwhelmed by the magic of people here, they are so caring.

"I am confident that Knutsford will be buzzing when lockdown ends. December was phenomenal, people were so desperate to get out of the house, the feeling was almost euphoric.

"I am sure the town will come back to life with a a wonderful return of people from all over the area who prefer local villages to big shopping centres."