SHOPPERS and former employees of Browns of Chester came together at the weekend to share their memories of the iconic store.

A mainstay of the city’s commercial and cultural landscape for more than 200 years, Browns is the subject of a new sound artwork project by Cheshire Archives and the Grosvenor Museum for which visitors could have their memories recorded and preserved.

‘More Than a Shop – share your Browns story’, which took place on Saturday, February 17, also featured a series of rarely seen photographs, posters, and adverts from the store’s history.

Short conversations about Browns were recorded by radio producer and art director, Geoff Bird, and will be turned into a soundscape used for public display, with the raw recordings added to the Cheshire Archives for researchers.

Standard Readers were also on hand to share their memories, with dozens of comments on social media.

First founded by Susannah Brown in 1780, the store’s status and brand were such that when Debenhams took it over in 1976, it was the only shop in the chain which traded under its original name.

The store eventually closed in May 2021 after 230 years of continuous trading, but its history has since been celebrated by projects by the likes of University of Chester, Cheshire Archives, and West Cheshire Museums.

Sian Jones said: "Worked there 1983 to 1987 then went back 88 to 89 loved it !! Laughed and laughed."

Susan Guignard said: "My mum worked here in the 1950s - 60s in the china dept then years later I worked there in the accessories dept loved working there."

Michele Halligan said: "I have some many memories. My mum went every Friday for her hair doing for 20 plus years in the 60’s & 70’s. Miss hedge was the manageress. The salon was across from the restaurant which was silver service. When you were in there models would come round showing off clothes hats etc."

Santa's Grotto was also a highlight for many, as was the crypt café and the sound of the old building's creaking floorboards.

Mike Peers said: "Recollection of receiving a badge in the early 60’s 'I’ve seen Father Christmas at Browns of Chester' Treasured it until I lost it."

Lesley Woods adds: "You could hear the floorboards creaking, lovely sound and the wonderful waitresses in the café upstairs, all with a pinny. Used to visit with my grandmother."

This latest soundscape project is part of Chester Rows Heritage Action Zone funded by Historic England and the National Lottery Heritage Fund, and supported by Arts Council England.