Drakes Plumbing Supplies recently held an open evening to celebrate its acquisition of A&C Plumbing, creating its eighth branch.

The evening was well supported by plumbers and heating engineers in the Whitstable area, and the guests of honour were the Sheriff of Canterbury, Councillor Tony Austin, and his wife Pauline.

Drakes’ chairman David Aisher, and managing director Andy Clark, greeted guests while key staff, including head of sales Adam Austin, ensured that customers had a great time.

A putting competition at the event raised £130 for the Pilgrims Hospices, while a raffle saw one customer win a Drakes tool bag. A variety of trade suppliers were also present with stands from Polypipe, Bristan, Worcester, Bosch Group and L&M.

Mr Clark said: “It was great to celebrate Drakes’ eighth branch and more importantly, meet customers and potential customers. I am sure that our new Whitstable branch will rapidly become a key part of the Drakes family.”