CHESTER city centre’s oldest original shop front has had a make-over.

The shop front of Waltons of Chester, by the Eastgate Clock, dates back to the 1950s.

While the original Johnson Baker of London design remains, the shop has been modernised inside and out.

David Lee, manager of Waltons of Chester, Eastgate Street, said “a flurry of shops closing”, and increasing rents in the city creating pressure for traders.

He said: “The investment in the Walton’s of Chester shop front is bucking this trend and there is a commitment by the company to the long term future of the city.

“The new shop front conveys an image of quality and style. The interior also feels more spacious.

“We have tried to retain the original concept, yet modernise the shop, keeping everything streamlined and sophisticated, yet understated.”

A year ago, Waltons of Chester appeared in BBC1’s CrimeWatch, in a reconstruction of a robbery there in August, 2006.

Increased security was also a major investment for the new frontage.

Richard Hogben, general manager of Waltons of Chester, added: “Attending the world’s largest jewellery and watch show in Switzerland this week, we are keen to put the new displays to good use with the latest watch and jewellery ranges.

“Later this year, we will be showing one of the few James Bond Omega Limited Edition watches to reach the UK to coincide with the latest Bond film with Chester’s own Daniel Craig.”