John Lewis of Hungerford features in Queen's commemorative album

WHEN John Lewis arrived in Hungerford in 1972 he could not have imagined that one day his company would be featured in The Official Platinum Jubilee Album of her Majesty The Queen.

A delighted Mr Lewis said: "We're in a section titled Regal Style and are one of just a small number of designer manufacturers to be included."

Mr Lewis made a kitchen for his mother when he was just 12 years old and today his ideas have influenced kitchen design all over the world.

He began his John Lewis of Hungerford (JLH) kitchen and furniture empire in a one-man Hungerford workshop in1972.

Mr Lewis has previously told the Newbury Weekly News: "I can remember that first day so clearly – it was cold, rainy and I was nervous.

"I had given up a good job with the Ministry of Agriculture and come to Hungerford, where I did not know anyone, to start my one-man business.

"I was passionate about design, furniture, woodwork, retailing and business and this was an opportunity to immerse myself in everything.

"I had found a tiny derelict building to rent from a man called David Roberts for £2.50 a week but my greatest fear was that it would collapse before I finished getting it ready."

After receiving this latest "amazing" royal accolade, Mr Lewis said he wanted to thank his entire team, both past and present, for making it possible.