Alan Stone, 57, who runs the company, said he was “over the moon” to learn that Squirrels was chosen as Retailer of the Year.

“I am so happy that this small independent business has been identified as Retailer of the Year,” he told The Gazette.

“I’m over the moon. It shows that people are always looking for small niche businesses in city centers.”

The company was voted Retailer of the Year after receiving the most nominations from our readers.

Squirrels was founded by Ros Austen, Phil Woods, Elbert Stone (Alan’s father) and a young Alan in 1981. Alan said he entered the antiques world when he was only eight years old. .

The company specializes in antique silverware, firearms, knives, swords, and gold and silver jewelry. They do free appraisal work for most local attorneys for probate work and free identification work for clients.

Alan Stone with Basingstoke and Deane Mayor Cllr Onnalee Cubbitt at the store’s 40th anniversary celebration

Alan said that Squirrels also offers free opinions to customers on everything relating to antiques and the world of collections.

“We also have a huge collection of Basingstoke memorabilia,” Alan said.

“It’s not here in the shop, but we keep it for groups like theaters, WIs (Women’s Institutes) and museums. They borrow us to show the history of Basingstoke. We are also members of a number of groups like Basingstoke Historic Society ”

Alan said he had his staff – Andrew Wilkinson, Amanda Buinon, Charlotte Bennett, Dorothy Ciaston – and clients to thank for the award.

“For our 40th anniversary, we’ve seen customers come since our inception in 1981,” he added.

“We are now welcoming the grandchildren of our first clients. ”