Haverfordwest store Ocky White is celebrating 100 years of business, having begun its story in 1910.

The story began when 14 year old Octavious John White set out for London where he was to serve his apprenticeship as a draper. His training completed, he returned to Pembrokeshire and in the first quarter of the year 1910, the name Ocky White was first seen over a shop in North Road, Milford Haven. Within two years Ocky White was employing his first man and was challenging some of the long-established shops for the Welsh flannel trade.

In 1920, Ocky opened another shop in High Street, Haverfordwest, and employed ten people, before later moving to its present location.

Following in his father’s footsteps, his son John took over as managing director and the present managing director is Jeremy. Jeremy’s son Guy’s appointment as director of the company means the business is now into its fourth generation.

The business has seen many changes over the years particularly in the many different departments and choice of goods on offer.

About 70 staff work at Ocky White and the store is looking forward to the special events planned throughout the year to celebrate its centenary.

* The Ocky White store would like Presspack members to design a poster to help mark the 100-year milestone (1910-2010).

The poster should be on an A4 piece of paper, and have space to include the gold store logo (pictured). Your design could reflect the store’s past, present or future. It will be used in store during the centenary year.

The winner will receive a £100 store voucher. The second and third prize winners will receive a £50 and £25 voucher respectively.

The closing date for entries is Monday, March 8th. Please include your name, full address, contact telephone number and Presspack number on all entries.

Send your entry to Presspack, Western Telegraph, Old Hakin Road, Merlins Bridge, Haverfordwest, SA61 1XF.