CELEBRATIONS took place all weekend at the John Lewis at Home store in Mannington, kicking off the company’s 150th anniversary celebrations.

From a flash mob by Tanwood School of Performing Arts yesterday, to local bands providing music on Saturday, there was something for everyone.

The weekend marked the start of several months of celebrations from the historic department store.

Section manager Phoenix Stewart, who spent much of the weekend on a pair of stilts, said: “The feedback we have had from our customers has been fantastic.

“A lot of people have seen the adverts on TV so know about the anniversary and have been wishing us a happy birthday. Not many businesses survive for 150 years so I think this shows how John Lewis has moved with the times and is definitely worth celebrating “This is just the start of things we have planned, including raising money for our chosen charity, Barnardo’s.”

One of the activities available was asking children to draw a picture of what they think Swindon will look like in 150 years. The winners will be judged shortly, with the top three being displayed in the cafeteria.