A COMPANY took on more than it bargained for when plans for a sale ran into the great British summer at its worst.

James Robertshaws, the Walkden-based manufacturer and retailer of outdoor patio awnings, had to find new ways to reward their customers, following one of the wettest summers on record.

"It has been a summer to forget," commented sales director Lesley Sharrock, "but recent years have seen some glorious 'Indian Summers' lasting through September and beyond."

In fact plans for an 'Indian Summer' store promotion were well advanced, when the recent floods provoked an emergency re-think.

"A customer rather cheekily suggested we should give him a special discount in view of the appalling weather," said shop manager Becky Garnett. "We reminded him it is not something we have any control over - but it did set us thinking."

"If the sun is shining, we now offer a 15 per cent discount.

"If it's raining, the discount goes up to 20 per cent," explained Becky.

Robertshaw's, which this year celebrates its 50th Anniversary in business, is the North West's main competitor in the national marketplace for motorised patio awnings.