P. D'Souza Decorating began in Southampton in June 1975, just a few weeks after the birth of Paul's son.

Paul started the business on his own and, without a vehicle, getting to his decorating jobs meant taking the bus — ladders and all.

From those early days, Paul became known for being a clean and careful decorator who took his time and did the job properly. He built his reputation not only on the standard of his work, but on the relationships he formed with his customers.

Those relationships became a huge part of the business. Customers returned to Paul time and again and recommended him to friends and family. Many of the customers and families Paul built relationships with over the years still remain customers of P. D'Souza Decorating today.

As the years went on, Paul's brothers worked alongside him and the business became a real family affair. Later, his son joined him, followed by his grandson.

Now, more than 50 years after Paul started P. D'Souza Decorating, his daughter has joined the business to run the administration and help take it forward.

Paul remains part of the business today. A lot may have changed since those early bus journeys in 1975, but the things that built P. D'Souza Decorating haven't — taking pride in the work, maintaining a high standard and building genuine relationships with customers.