In September 1920, aged 61 Franks passed the shop onto his son Harold, selling him the entire stock at a cost price of 353 pounds, 2 shillings and 3 pence, now the price of 3 cases of cigarettes.

Harold was extremely enterprising and was not content with the constraints of the small shops, and in 1933 acquired a large corner property just 30rds away. A prestigious site addressed No1 high street, using unique building materials such as self-cleaning tiled brick the building was completed and opened in 1934. Internally fitted with Mahogony cabinets, revolving window display unit and other mod cons, it created a traditional atmosphere but with up-to-date facilities. The building became the landmark of the town.

By this time cigarettes were the main form of smoking, and a large storeroom was incorporated for the blooming wholesale business supplying pubs and corner shops. In 1951 Harolds son Basil joined the company from the RAF. This was a time of shortages including Tobacco. Many a confrontation developed with customers, both retail and wholesale, over their allocation which had to be worked out by Basil and Harold. Everyone thought they deserved more, but there was never enough to satisfy demand. Queues formed outside the shop waiting for opening time and only one or two let in at a time.

Today’s proprietor is Peter, son of Basil Youings. Peter’s forefathers built the business from small beginnings offering the same service to all retail and wholesale customers whatever their size. He is determined not to lose sight of this principle and prides himself on the fact that he or one of the managers is always available to talk to and meet customers at any time.