MANY of the customers at Gilberts of Swindon in Old Town follow in the footsteps of their Victorian ancestors.

It was in 1866 that the company began selling furnishings and carpets, and it has been doing so ever since.

Since then, of course, plenty of things have changed, but Gilberts has never wavered in its commitment to offering customers nothing but the best items at the best prices.

There is also a refreshingly old-fashioned attitude to customer service, with no slick high-pressure sales techniques in evidence. The staff also pride themselves on their knowledge of their stock.

Co-owner Harry Lawrence said: "Most of our stock is from Britain, and we often visit the factories, so we're able to tell customers exactly how and where items are made.

"We believe in old fashioned valued. We like to talk to customers and be there mentors and advisers if they need one. We know our industry. "We don't believe in high pressure sales techniques. Customers are welcome to visit as many times as they wish before deciding to buy something."