CWMBRAN Centre was officially opened back in 1959.

Since then, the number of stores operating at the site has increasingly grown to more than 160.

Many are long-standing independent stores which describe themselves as “unique”.

One of the longest running businesses is gift shop Cane & Able.

The business was set up by Meryl Evans in 1987.

She said her business is unique for many reasons.

“Firstly independent stores create jobs for local people,” she said. “They give customers ‘an experience’ that the internet can never do.

“Independent retailers care about their customers as if it is their baby.”

Co-owner of Doodlebug, Charlotte Little, said her store is also unique because it offers things which cannot be found elsewhere.

“We sell a lot of things,” said Miss Little.

“We have cards, gifts and lots of other things.

“Lots of items you cannot get else where.”

On the far side of the shopping centre is Market Village which hosts even more independent traders.

The first store through the front doors is Cwmbran Fancy Dress.

Worker Nichola Read said: “I believe we are quite a popular store. We do things that big businesses cannot do.

“We have the person to person contact at this store and people can get what ever costume they want.”

She added: “People really ought to come along to Cwmbran and experience a true sense of customer and seller bond.”

Dave Drinkwater, who works for DDZ Rugs, believes that the business “is a one off”.

“We try to buy everything from local sources,” he said.

“Not many businesses are able to do that.

“We sell rugs and plaques. We are cheaper than the internet and provide a personable service.

“DDZ Rugs is a one off.”

Next door to DDZ Rugs is a traditional sweet shop, which has been operating for a decade.

Owner Paula Prangley said: “As you can see, we are a traditional sweet shop.

“You do not find many stores like this one now. The sweets are kept in big containers for people to choose from.

“I think that in itself makes us unusual.”

The owner also said by supporting independent stores you are helping the local community.

“I rely on the community,” she the 55-year-old.

“I hope people continue to come here. They will always get an excellent service.”

And the owner of Jade’s Bath Time Boutique, Jade Rowland, added: “I have been here just over a year and in that time I can honestly say that the stores in here are special.

“This store gets all of its stuff locally.

“In this day and age, not many stores can say they get their stuff from the local community. We are truly unique.”