The lasting image of the August riots was a picture beamed across the world of 145 year old House of Reeves furniture store burning uncontrollably.

In the 365 days since the disturbances three major shopping outlets have become casualties.

The electrical store Best Buy and office suppliers Staples have closed their stores and historic department store Allders went into administration in June this year, with chief executive Andrew Mckenzie blaming the riots for an economic downturn in the town.

Other stores along London Road were also destroyed in the widespread looting.

Chief executive of Croydon Business Improvement District has admitted there is no question the riots have damaged the image of Croydon and impacted on businesses.

Matt Sims, who was appointed chief executive of Croydon BID earlier this year, spoke of the impact on the town said: "The images of the riots will resonate for quite some time. They are negative images of Croydon and there can be no doubt it has damaged the image of the town.

"It has had a long term impact."

Mr Sims agreed the riots had not helped but there were also underlying problems.

He said: "The riots had an impact on the place itself but also on trade. However you also have to take into account we are in very tough economic conditions, a double dip recession, and to blame everything on the riots is perhaps a bit too easy."

Heavy criticism has been laid against police tactics on August 8 which saw the town centre protected by a cordon of officers while rioters looted shops on London Road.

Vice-chairman of the Broad Green Business Forum Fabion Emmaniel, 47, said things are moving in the right direction a year on.

He said: "We are moving in the right direction. "Parking bays have been put in which is great for businesses as it means more customers can park up and do their shopping.

"There is a regeneration plan for the area and it looks positive. It will bring in more business and more people to London Road.

"I see lots of police walking up and down the road so people feel a lot safer. There is a lot being done to improve the image of the area.

"Some businesses are struggling to claim on the insurance but the council are helping them and giving them advice. Some businesses got small grants from the council as well.

"The economic climate is not good as well remember so that is another reason why some people are finding it difficult to get back to their feet.

"I know there is a jeweller’s shop that is struggling but that is because gold has hit the roof at the moment.

"It is more down to the economy rather than the riots."