A POPULAR face has returned to the streets of Old Town as one of the town’s oldest businesses re-opens.

Electrical goods store Hickmans, in Victoria Road, had been trading for more than 80 years until it was hit by the recession and forced to close its doors in April this year.

Randy Burden, of Burden Electronics was saddened to see the old firm, which had served thousands of people over the years, disappear and became determined to try and resurrect the company.

Yesterday, that aim was achieved after some reorganisation and with additional products added to their range.

The shop, still in its former position, was re-opened by Iain Black, the chairman of the Old Town Business and Professional Association, and the store now boasts an extended range of electrical goods including TVs, hi fis, washing machines, tumble driers and electric and gas cookers.

According to Iain, Old Town appears to be bucking the economic trend with more businesses opening up in the area.

He said: “It is great to see Hickmans reopening.

“We want to see as many shops in Old Town as we can.

“It is always sad when you see an established shop close down but to see it open in a different guise, it is very positive.

“We are on a roll at the moment, despite being in a recession in Old Town there are places opening which is great to see and I hope it can continue.

“People who open stores like this are taking a risk with the recession on but they are being supported by the local people.”

Original staff, Colin Small and Keith Bailey, are also involved in the new enterprise, sharing their expert knowledge and the shop will continue offering personal service.

Randy said: “It has been a store which we have always been incredibly enthusiastic about.

“We don’t want to change much. We will still offer what people want from an independent store, and that is good knowledge, reliable service and the personal touch you don’t get from large chains.

“We are hoping all the customers who used to use the store come back and more.

“We have the advantage of a national buying group, Euronics, which ensures we can offer competitive prices with the independent service.”