One of Oxford's oldest businesses was highly commended in the Retailer of the Year Awards, writes Sarah Parker.

Shepherd & Woodward, which has its main store in the city's High Street, was fourth in the classic contemporary category of the awards run by FHM and Menswear magazines, competing against 500 independent retailers.

Managing director Adrian Palfreyman, who was promoted to the position a year ago, represents the third generation of management and plans to bring the 140-year-old business into the 21st century, while retaining its traditional values.

He said: "Where else could you get an alteration service while you wait, out-of-hours access and home delivery?

"We also offer a home-visit service for people with mobility difficulties. Without question our our exceptional customer service is the jewel in the crown."

Mr Palfreyman added: "We are slowly moving towards more contemporary fashion with new brands arriving in Spring 2001, we have installed a new computerised point-of-sale system and are launching a new corporate logo in black and silver."