BECKENHAM’S oldest shop is re-opening after a much-needed refurbishment.
The family-run store, Ardec, in Beckenham High Street, was opened in 1925 specialising in men’s clothing but is now branching out into homeware as well.
Manager Charmian Oakes, 23, is the great grand-daughter of the original founder.
She said: "We’ve updated the store slightly but have tried our best to retain the integrity.
"It’s a bit like a museum as well as a shop because it has some really beautiful old-fashioned featured.
"I feel really proud to be carrying on the legacy and hopefully will pass it down to my children as well."
Father Roger, 65, has handed over the reigns to Charmian after working at Ardec for more than 25 years.
The family had a grand opening on Saturday to show off the refurbished shop to customers while taking them on a trip down memory lane.
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