AN independent family jewellers is branching out into Kendal after decades of serving the people of Lancaster.

It is 32 years since Rodney Banks Lyon unveiled his Lancaster store, which offers luxury watches and jewellery lines.

Maxine Banks Lyon, marketing director for Banks Lyon Jewellers, felt the decision to open a second store came as a natural progression for the company.

"Kendal has been of interest to us for a number of years now, and we have been watching its development very closely," she said. "We recognise that it has a very strong offering of quality independent retailers, and is the commerce hub for the southern and western Lake District areas."

In 2015, the independent jewellers welcomed the second-generation of the family into the business, with Rodney and Jasmin’s daughter, Maxine, and husband Alexander joining the team.

"The beauty of being a small family business is that one can respond immediately to any fluctuations in the market, whether they be positive or negative," said Maxine. "Being surrounded by family also allows you to relax in that you know everyone has your's and the business's best interests at heart."

The new shop is to be located at 33 Market Place, and is due to open in May this year.

And although there are already a handful of jewellery stores in Kendal, Maxine believes that competition is 'healthy'.

"I am a very strong believer in that competition is healthy. It keeps everyone on their toes, and is actually good for business, as it drives footfall," she said. "If you look at the likes of Glasgow’s Argyll arcade, or London’s Bond Street, they both have a very high concentration of jewellers, yet business is thriving.

"There are long-established jewellers in Kendal, who we very much respect. However, we believe we can bring something new with a different brand offering, a new concept store yet sticking to the foundations of our business by continuing to offer the finest quality diamonds, jewellery and Swiss watches at the very best value, supported by friendly, highly trained sales people."

The Kendal showroom will play host to a range of prestigious Swiss watches, fine jewellery, fashion jewellery and diamonds.

"It is an incredibly exciting and proud time for me and my family and we are thoroughly looking forward to the new venture," Rodney Banks Lyon, owner of Banks Lyon Jewellers said.