Tony Williams, managing director of Marlows DIY & Garden Centre in Suffolk, passed away on October 1. Here, he is remembered by his daughter Sarah. 

Index drops nine points to 53 in September, reversing "temporary uplift" seen in August, as shoppers left uncertain by Government action. 

FPB recommends putting business continuity plans in place, as forecasters predict another harsh, snow-filled winter in the coming months. 

UK retail sales values for September 2010 were up 0.5% on a like-for-like basis compared with September 2009, when sales rose 2.8%, according to the latest results from the BRC-KPMG Retail Sales Monitor. 

September's Retail Price Index (RPI) threatens a business rates shock for retailers next year unless the Government takes action. 

Administrations for the first nine months of 2010 are down 36% compared with the same period in 2009, according to new research from Deloitte. 

Wickes' parent Travis Perkins has reported a 6% increase in group turnover for the nine months to the end of September 2010, compared with the same period last year. 

Homewares market reports 10% growth in September, as consumers rush to make purchases ahead of VAT increase in January. 

New branch well received, while DIY and gardening chain continues with plan to reach to 20 outlets by 2013. 

The latest news from the Totally shows is that the 2011 event is set to increase in size by a third, thanks to strong bookings and a move from hall 10 to hall 11. 

Houseproud of Morningside is showing support for Breast Cancer Awareness this month by creating pink window displays. 

Textiles, carpets and fitted furniture lead the way, as department store group posts weekly sales rise of 14%. 

Dobbies chief executive James Barnes has confirmed that the company is still on track to have 100 garden centres by 2020, while ambitions to create a £1bn business "have not changed". 

B&Q parent looks at potential of expanding into new markets with franchised stores and own-brand products. 

Group sales up 6.5% for 13-week period, with home category showing the biggest rise. 

Homewares retailer Dunelm has reported sales growth of 11.6% to £126.7m for the 13 weeks to October 2. 

Sainsbury's second quarter trading statement, released this morning and covering the 16 weeks to October 2, shows non-food is still growing at three times the rate of food. 

Department store chain becomes the latest retailer to take advantage of the growing use of mobile internet devices, with an 'app' planned for next year. 

The number of adults visiting garden centres has risen by 10% in the past four years, according to a new report from the Horticultural Trades Association. 

Some intelligent planting could save the average family £134 in gas bills if research from the Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) is borne out.