Welwyn Garden City's John Lewis store is set to celebrate its 40th anniversary with a weekend of events and freebies for customers.

On Saturday, July 27 and Sunday, July 28, visitors to the Bridge Road shop can enjoy free fashion talks, fizz and Waitrose food tastings.

There will be something for everyone, with a balloon artist and Bluey set to make an appearance to entertain children.

To commemorate the occasion, Art Deco illustrator Katie Hounsome has been commissioned to create a special image of the shop, which customers can see in detail on the ground floor in the gifts department.

Peter Lewis, who was chairman when the branch opened in 1984, welcomed the Partnership’s 21st department store into the John Lewis family.

Fashion promoted in-store at the time included an on-trend range of coordinated separates.

Amanda Slader, brand experience manager and long-serving partner at John Lewis Welwyn said: “I’ve worked at John Lewis Welwyn since it opened, and while I’ve seen many changes, our commitment to delighting our visitors has remained a priority.

"We’re so excited to be marking this milestone with a celebratory weekend of events and activities for our valued customers, and look forward to seeing faces old and new who have shopped with us over the years.”

Saturday, July 27:

● ‘Bluey’ - Toys, Ground floor, on the hour every hour from 11am - 3pm

● Fizz stations - Menswear, Ground floor & Fashions, First floor, 12-3pm

● Summer-themed style talks – Style Studio, First floor, 11.30 & 4pm

● DJ - Fashions, First floor, 12-4pm

Sunday, July 28:

● Waitrose food tastings - Kitchenware, Ground floor 12-4pm

● Balloon Artist - Toys, Ground floor, 12-3pm

● Fizz stations - Menswear, Ground floor & Fashions, First floor, 12-3pm

● Summer-themed style talks – Style Studio, First floor, 12 noon