A FAMILY run business in Cirencester has recently celebrated a very exciting milestone.

Owners of Creative Picture Framing - which is based at College Farm, Tetbury Road, Cirencester - celebrated the company's 35th anniversary on Friday, September, 29 by inviting customers, old and new, to see their new workshop and to enjoy a glass of fizz.

Founder Chris Smith initially trained in picture framing at AJ Ponsfords and Antique shop in Dollar Street, Cirencester and in 1988 he decided to take the plunge and set up his own business.

He set up as a sole trader and was one of the first inhabitants of the Bathurst Estate’s College Farm Workshops and is now one of the estates' longest running business tenants.

Creative Picture Framing evolved into a limited company in 2010 and has recently moved into a larger unit at the same site that has a dedicated showroom for customers.

The company frames for local residents, local and nationally acclaimed artists and also works with prestigious galleries, museums and corporate establishments. 

Chris is now in his 60s and is currently training up his son Joshua Smith and his son in law Daryl Perkins to carry the business forward.   

Chris' wife Sonia said: "We have an amazing pool of skills and experience in our workforce which means we can offer a huge range of bespoke hand finishes such as gilding, hand finished frames and mounts which many picture framers can’t offer outside of London.

"Our range is now second to none and we pride ourselves in having a can do attitude when it comes to customers needs."

Chris said: "I can’t believe it has been 35 years since I started my business at College Farm Buildings - it’s a great environment to work in and I can honestly say that many of my customers are now good friends."

Lord Bathurst said: "We are delighted that Creative Picture Framing has grown from a small start-up business to the successful, reputable business it is today. 

"We are pleased that the estate has been able accommodate their growing business, which goes from strength to strength. 

"We look forward to continuing our relationship and to support their journey at College Farm."