Riot-hit shop displays positive message

The iconic furniture store which was fire-damaged in last year's riots has been covered in thousands of images of young people holding positive statements.

House of Reeves, in Croydon had stood on the same corner for more than a century when it was targeted by rioters a year ago (Monday 6 August 2011), now owner Maurice Reeves and his son and co-owner Trevor Reeves are helping to challenge the negative perceptions born from the actions of a minority of Britain's youth last year.

Alongside pop-star Delilah the visual stunt was launched this morning on the House of Reeves adjacent store, part of the same business which was also damaged in the riots but has been refurbished.

The store was decked with pictures of youngsters holding cards with hopeful messages for society and their local community.

Reverse Riots a charity campaign are working in conjunction with Maurice and Trevor Reeves, vInspired and Do Something - charities behind the campaign - and hope the bold statement of positivity will showcase all the generous contributions to society and local communities that young people offer.

Trevor Reeves said: "The positive legacy of the riots was the coming together of people of all ages and from all walks of life to help mend the capital. We were overwhelmed by the support that was offered to our family and many others affected in the days and weeks that followed.

"We are blessed with so many bright, inspirational and positive young people in this country and I believe it's important that we don't allow the actions of such a few to cloud our judgment of the many."