Swindon is full of incredible independent businesses - but which are your favourites?
We asked Adver readers which of the town's homegrown success stories they liked the most and received hundreds of responses.
They ranged from new start-ups to longstanding fixtures of the high street and included cosy cafes, renowned retailers and snazzy salons along with an array of other entrepreneurial efforts.
The oldest independent business in Swindon is also one of the best - Deacons Jewellers on Wood Street, which has seen six generations of the same family selling quality watches, wedding rings, clocks, chinaware and gifts since it opened in 1848.
The staff at La Beaute Hair Swindon were described as a "lovely group of people" by one customer who said they "always feel fantastic when I leave" because "they're so friendly".
Phoenix Martial Arts and Fitness was hailed as being "great for all ages" as it "helps build confidence and resilience".
Mitchell Cycles on Shrivenham Road's talented team were praised for being "so knowledgeable and really helpful".
Personal trainer Frank Fitness' "compassionate, sensitive and person-centered approach" was highlighted.
James Townsend shouted out Thorne Vehicle Cosmetics, a family business started two years ago by "an amazing man" who has "sponsored a football team getting them an amazing kit, making them look and feel a million dollars, there's no better company".
The UK Cafe in Swindon's newest neighbourhood Wichelstowe got the thumbs up from one customer who complimented its "amazing food and drink, friendly staff and incredible service".
The Incredible Comic Shop in the Brunel Shopping Centre was singled out by a Swindonian who felt "lucky to have them" because "there aren't many places left in the UK with a proper comic book shop". Her recommendation was seconded by another reader who mentioned how much her daughter loves going there.
The recent award winners at Brew Book Cafe in Stratton's Beechcroft Library received plaudits for their "amazing food and drink, great atmosphere and super friendly staff” who set up "a lovely cafe for the local community".
Suggestions for the Havelock Street shop Rowans Closet, catering company Out of the Box, Ron's Stores on Rodbourne Road ("If they haven't got it, you don't need it"), the "small but perfectly formed" Bert's Books bookshop in Old Town, and the Marshgate Industrial Estate-based Town and Country Windows each received lots of likes from Facebook users.
Honourable mentions went to Sewcraft, the Children's Scrapstore, Goody's Cafe, the Rusty Garage Brewery, GW Hunt Family Butchers, The Hair Lounge, Do It School of Motoring, Thorne Dings and Dents, Wild Inspired Bushcraft and Forest School.
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