Pictures: Banbury’s in Barnstaple celebrates 100th birthday in style with a letter from the King

Customers, staff and special guests gathered on Friday morning to mark 100 years to the day when iconic Barnstaple department store Banbury’s opened its doors for the first time.

With staff in 1920s attire and a crowd looking on, the store was reopened with all ceremony and some short speeches before eager shoppers were invited inside.

Above: Staff in 1020s finery. Credit: Viral PR

Lady Arran, the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Devon and representing His Majesty the King, joined North Devon MP Ian Roome, the Mayor of Barnstaple Janet Coates and Managing Director Peter Banbury to cut a ribbon to mark the occasion.

Above: 'Winston Churchill' was also on hand, alias Kevin Davies. Credit: Sandra Davies

Lady Arran also read a letter from King Charles, expressing his regret at being unable to attend as he and the Queen are currently in Northern Ireland, but it added: “I can tell you the King was interested to hear a little of the history of the department store and was heartened to learn that it continues to be such an important part of the local community.

“His Majesty would have me convey his hope that you will have a very enjoyable day of celebrations. And I'm to pass on the King that the warmest wishes to you, to all the staff and customers and congratulate you all on your hundred years.”

The Countess of Arran said having grown up in North Devon, she had always known Banbury's very well.

She added: "It has been a fantastic shop for us all. It's much more than a shop, it's an institution.”

Above: Lady Arran reads out the letter from His Majesty the King. Credit: Viral PR

Managing director Peter Banbury said: "In 1925, our great-grandfather opened these doors with a vision of providing the community of North Devon with something truly unique, a place where service, quality and a personal touch can be found under one roof.

“As we mark our 100th year, it's quite an overwhelming feeling to think how many generations have been through these very doors, whether to find that perfect gift, the latest fashions or the everyday essentials that make life that little bit easier.

“Ironically, it's exactly five years ago today that we had to shut these doors for Covid. And if you'd asked me whether I'd be here doing this today at that time, I don't know what my answer would have been.

“Today, it's about celebrating the past and looking forward to the future. I and my cousin Simon, my father, his brothers, my grandmother and grandfather and my great-grandfather were and are only caretakers of the business for a moment in time, before we passed it on to the next generation.

“But ultimately, without your support, there wouldn't be much to pass on. So I'd like to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt thanks to all of you, our loyal customers, our staff, past and present, suppliers and friends, for supporting Banbury's throughout the years.”

Above: Managing Director Peter Banbury with 'Winston'. Credit: Sandra Davies

Barnstaple Mayor Janet Coates said: “If, like me, you have grown up in this town, I am sure you will have fond memories as I do with visiting Banbury's as a child, gazing at the wonderful window displays and all the items on display within the store.

“It is a wonderful achievement, not least in these challenging economic times, to reach 100 years in retail. And I think we can all agree that longevity of Banbury's is a testament to the dedication of the family who have nurtured this store through the decades.

"Banbury's is a shining example of how tradition can evolve to meet the needs of the local world while still maintaining the values that play this mixture in our community.”

Above: Shoppers crowd into the store after the opening. Credit: Viral PR

In honour of its 100th anniversary, Banbury’s is offering a 20% discount on everything across its two days of celebration, which continues tomorrow (Saturday).

Store mascot Banbury the Bear will still be wandering the store and High Street, plus there will be a horse and carriage photo booth from Higher Bidacott Farm set up at front of the store.

Banbury’s is also launching a centenary merchandise range after teaming up with local companies. This includes an exclusive 100 year candle and soap from Clovelly soap and centenary fudge bag from Roly’s fudge.

A proportion of the sales will go to three local charities close to the Banbury’s family and staff - plus there is a charity raffle with 50 luxury prizes to be won where all proceeds go to the three charities.

The chosen charities are North Devon Hospice, Devon Air Ambulance and Fern Centre cancer and wellbeing centre at North Devon District Hospital.