Cumbrian lovers look like they might be leaving it late to spring a romantic surprise - but shops are prepared to handle the last-minute dash.

Both florists and chocolatiers say business has been fairly quiet in the run up to Valentine's Day - but all are on standby for a late rush from any forgetful boyfriends, girlfriends, husbands or wives.

"It's all been fairly quiet," said Suzi Smith, who runs the Enchanted Florist on Senhouse Street, in Maryport. "We haven't had anyone asking for anything really unusual.

"Maybe all the Cumbrian men have decided to leave it until the last minute."

Suzi, who only opened the business last year, said: "It's our first Valentine's. There might well be a last-minute rush, so I'm prepared for that."

Suzi recalled one recent encounter with a male customer who was unsure what to buy his significant other. "He came in and I asked what he wanted," she said.

"He said 'I'm a man, I don't know what I want. You're the florist - you pick!'"

Jane Cullen, who runs Saunders Choclates in Thursby with her husband Bob, said chocolates are often bought on the day or in the days leading up to an event.

"We don't usually see a rush earlier than seven days beforehand," she explained.

"It's not something that people tend to prepare for weeks in advance."

But, anyone who is looking to pick up tasty treats for their loved ones today will not have far to look.

"We've got Valentine's boxes at Cranstons and we also supply to Shills in Cockermouth," Jane added.

"We've got red-foiled heart-shaped chocolates with a praline filling, which are always popular."