Hello again, Paul.
I've been through my information. John Reeves and his family moved into 48 & 50 Hermit Road in the late 1890s. He doesn't seem to have been there in 1896 but he was in 1899. He stayed there until he left for Australia in May 1911.
During the period between October 1906 and May 1908 he was subject to bankruptcy proceedings but he seems to have continued in the business during this time. From 1899 he was employing his eldest daughter's husband and after he left for Australia they continued but in their own name (Hills).
Hope this is of some use. If I find any more I'll add it to this thread.
Regards,
Elizabeth