PENARTH Rotary members and guests were entertained at some length by a consummate salesman recently. John Webb of the well known Crickhowell store gave an interesting and humorous account of events associated with his family’s business.

The problems associated with the growth of a small business, particularly in a close knit community, were highlighted via a fund of stories. He often played down the difficulties encountered in early years but it was clear that it had been ‘touch and go’ for the survival of the business on several occasions. His salesman skills surfaced from time to time and many in the audience will be able to recall prominent products held at ‘Webbs’.

John Webb praised the determination and ingenuity of his parents and his brothers for growing a small local paraffin delivery service into a well known business with a wide product range supplying many parts of the country. His joy in his work and the drive apparent to his listeners belied his remarks concerning his own age.

The audiences’ enthusiastic response was neatly summarised in the vote of thanks given by Rotary President Val Kacal who expressed the pleasure John Webb had given to all present.