William graduated from Leeds University, having read business management with Asia Pacific studies. He has since worked for an international PLC in London.

On the subject of his new position, William comments, “I am really excited about joining Chelsom officially although the company has always been part of my life. It will be great to finally play a role in the continuing history of the firm. It is quite rare for businesses to pass through three generations, so for Chelsom to be entering a fourth is quite an achievement.

“I appreciate that I have an awful lot to learn, but I’m already bursting with ideas and enthusiasm for this new challenge. From what I’ve seen so far, there is so much potential for Chelsom that I’m going to be kept extremely busy. It isn’t really like starting a new job as over the years I have got to know most of the staff at Chelsom, many of whom have worked for the company for more years than I have lived!”

Now in its sixtieth year, Chelsom was established in 1947 as The Golden Age, a retail shop specialising in antique lighting and furniture. Reg and Kay Chelsom, Robert’s parents opened the shop and co-opted Robert’s grandmother to make spectacular handmade shades for the table lamps – hence the fourth generation.