Watkinsons Shoes Celebrates 120 Years with a Memorable Anniversary Event

2024 marked a monumental milestone for Watkinsons Shoe Shop as it celebrates 120 years of serving the community, and what better way to commemorate this remarkable achievement than with a lively late-night shopping event?

On Thursday 28th November 2024, the shop opened its doors for a special evening that brought together customers, long-time patrons, and staff for a night of celebration and community spirit. With live music filling the air, exclusive discounts on their extensive range of footwear, and delicious canapés for guests to enjoy, the event was a true reflection of Watkinsons’ commitment to quality, service, and tradition.

A Special Night for Staff and Shoppers Alike

The anniversary celebration was not only a treat for customers but also a  thank-you to the dedicated team that has helped Watkinsons thrive for over a century and especially during recent years. 

“It’s an honor to carry on the tradition and to bring Watkinsons into 2024 with innovative brands and new customers” said Alice Preece, director. “The evening really brought the community together, and it was wonderful to see so many familiar faces returning to help us celebrate 120 years. The anniversary was not only a celebration of our history but also a look forward to many more years of Watkinsons.”

Action Bladder UK

One of the elements of the night was the charity raffle, which raised over £400 for Action Bladder Cancer UK, a charity. The team were deeply moved by the generosity of those who attended. The raffle’s proceeds will go toward supporting the charity’s vital work in raising awareness and providing support for people affected by bladder cancer. Jeffrey Preece- Alice’s father who had been in the shoe business for over 40 years tragically died from bladder cancer in 2023. 

Looking Ahead to the Future

As Watkinsons looks forward to the next 120 years, the event was a reminder of just how much the shop means to the local area. Generations of families have walked through its doors, and it continues to be a trusted destination for stylish, high-quality footwear.

Directors Alice Preece and Diana Widdicombe, are already looking ahead to the future and will be working tirelessly to ensure the shops legacy. 

The anniversary event was a perfect blend of tradition and modern celebration, with guests taking advantage of exclusive discounts while enjoying the warm, inviting atmosphere that Watkinsons is known for. It was a night that will surely be remembered as part of the shop’s rich history.

Here’s to another 120 years of providing fantastic footwear and creating lasting memories for the community!