The supermarket chain is one of the stores in the partnership, and half a century ago control of the stores was handed over to its employees, who all have a stake in its success.

Putney staff marked the occasion with a special cake, glasses of bubbly and a souvenir mug each.

To mark the anniversary, the John Lewis Partnership has set up a £5m charitable fund.

Partners from around Britain will go to a range of charities on secondment for six months.