ONE of the most famous retail names in Newport is under new ownership and due to open with a new look tomorrow, despite near closure, writes Tasmin Lockwood.

The 50-year-old clothes store Chessman has been taken over by John Stanaway and his family firm Stanreed Limited after it came under threat of closure.

Like many high street stores, it struggled for finance in recent years but Stanreed has undoubtedly created a bright future for the iconic store.

Mr Stanaway said: “I’ve grown up with Chessmen and shopped there for most of my life as it was the place to go before the weekend and always had the latest top brands - my brother even had his wedding suit from Chessmen back in the 70s believe it or not!

“I couldn’t believe it was ending and that the name Chessmen would be gone from Newport forever potentially, as it was so iconic.

“So, my family and I got together and we decided it was a simple decision.

“I’ve 40 years of experience in business, the family have loads of ideas, and we’ll also be keeping manager Nick Aston with us who has been part of Chessmen for many years and he’s got 25 years’ worth of experience in the industry and a real eye for the latest fashion lines.

“We might even explore a children’s and women’s range once we get up and running.”

Chessmen has been closed for the past week for a refit and will open with a new-look on tomorrow.