Cambridge’s Vacuum Cleaner Centre relocates after 45 years on Burleigh Street

This last week has been emotional for Andrew Redfarn – Friday was the last time The Vacuum Cleaner Centre opened its doors on Burleigh Street, where it has been situated since 1979.

For the proprietor, there is pride at the shift the business has put in and satisfaction that the new premises on Ronald Rolph Court will be opening in the new year. As well as that, there’s a personal and family dynamic to the company’s existence – it was started by Andrew’s dad, John.

“I own the business,” says Andrew. “I officially took over from dad 20 years ago. He’s still working in the shop some days. I started when I was 18 and I’m 44 now, so it’s man and boy almost. I was a year old when they [his mum and dad] started here.”

John’s career began at Pye.

“He used to work at Pye Unicam,” explains Andrew, “he specialised in lathes and metalwork, and he represented the company at an event in Holland - he was 17 at the time.

“It all started in a shop down Mill Road, at what is now the Amnesty bookshop. Before that it was PK Appliances: his pal Peter Kent repaired washing machines and my dad was helping him out.

“He was doing repairs and deliveries and he always wanted a vacuum shop. The first shop he opened was in City Road –number 46, where the old Coopers Arms used to be – in 1974. That opened with his friend Graham Prime, it was washing machines and vacuum cleaners.

“Dad wanted to focus on vacuum cleaners, and Graham was more about the washing machines. Everyone was wondering why focus on vacuum cleaners, but we’re still here!”

Those were the days when the Kite area was a thing, but not for long…

“The council gave dad three months notice to get out as they were knocking down the area for the Grafton Centre.

“The business was doing okay so he found this shop within three months. That was in 1974 and we’ve been here since.

“We’re probably the longest-serving business in the Kite area – it’s been 50 years this year, but there’s been no celebrations as we’re moving.”

And how have things changed since 1974?

“Burleigh Street has changed a lot, not necessarily for being worse, but it’s a different clientele and the Grafton is changing: it’s a chance for someone new to come in.”

Watch out for details of the new premises’ location in the new year.