John Lewis branch manager, Glynis Gunning-Stevenson, said the store made sure they were back on track the day after the riots had taken place.

The store in Purely Way didn’t suffer massive damage with looters targeting the home entertainment section.

She said: "When we walked in on Tuesday August 9 last year we were surprised that much of the shop had been left intact.

"We were utterly determined to clean up in one day and then be back trading the day after. The staff got stuck in and we were up and running the following day.

"The police were brilliant in their follow up as well. The customer reaction was interesting as they could not believe we were back so quickly but they were shocked that a store such as ours was targeted.

"As far as business is concerned, the past year has been tremendous. We have had fantastic support. She added that Croydon’s image had not put off customers from the store.

"Our customer base has not been damaged as a result of the riots. I have got huge confidence that we are heading in the right direction and have the town has got its act together."