A garden and building supplier from Andover is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year.

Andover Patio Centre is a family-owned business which is now in its second generation, with Simon Potter taking over the business from his late father Alan in 1988.

Alan and Nadine Potter started the business as a small landscaping company in 1963, and it then evolved into selling more stock, including paving. In 1988, Simon Potter joined his parent's business to take on the Calor Gas dealership the business had just secured. 

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Under Simon’s leadership, the business has expanded into industrial gases and skip hire, becoming a dealer for Air Products and incorporating Andover Mini Skip Hire into its work. 

In addition to being a supplier of patio, building materials and gas, Andover Patio Centre also serves as the local post office, a vital service for Picket Piece.

When the patio centre first started in 1963, Picket Piece was home to just 40 houses, and today 60 years later, now has over 1,000.

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Throughout its 60-year history, Andover Patio Centre has weathered many challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic. As an essential business, the patio centre continued to operate, providing a vital service.

Reflecting on the anniversary, Simon Potter said: “Everyone here at Andover Patio Centre is really proud of having been in business for 60 years.

"This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without all of the brilliant staff we’ve had over the years and the loyal customers who have supported us, some of whom have been using us for over 40 years. A massive thank you to everyone who has