One of the oldest jewellers in the North West has announced it will be closing down having been in operation for almost 150 years.
Leonard Dews in Blackpool has been selling original, high-quality jewellery and watches since 1877, but now current owner Michael Hyman has announced the imminent permanent closure of the store.
The end of the era will be marked by a huge closing down sale starting at 10am on Saturday, June 3, with items including diamond rings, coloured stone pieces, earrings, necklaces and bracelets discounted by 50 per cent.
Michael, who joined the business 55 years ago to support his father, said: “I grew up here in Blackpool and came into the business in 1968.
"I learnt my trade on the job, guided by my father.
“My father, who passed away in 1977, was hugely knowledgeable about diamonds and taught me everything I needed to know.
"But watches were always my passion, so I went to Switzerland to understand how the finest quality watches were manufactured.”
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In its heyday, the business had a number of stores across the country, but when recession hit in the 1980s, it had to be scaled back down and transferred to the flagship Leonard Dews store on the West Coast.
The Blackpool store, located in Church Street just off the Promenade and a stone's throw from the Tower and North Pier, weathered the economic storm and moved to its current location in 2000.
Going from strength to strength, Leonard Dews was expanded and refurbished, taking on several high-end watch brands, including Patek Phillipe, TAG Heuer, Omega, Bremont and Chopard.
After a rich history dating back almost 150 years, Michael has now taken the difficult decision to close the store for good ahead of his retirement.
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He said: “My team and I have worked hard to take Leonard Dews to where it is today.
"We have shared our dedication and passion with our customers, who have supported us over many years.
"Now I have made the emotional decision to hang up my loupe and call time on this much-loved business.
“My first concern was for my staff and I have been supporting them as much as possible to find new positions.
“After 55 years in the business, I want to have this opportunity to say goodbye to customers old and new.
"I will be here throughout the closing down sale to thank them for their support and custom over the years and help them to choose one last memorable piece from Leonard Dews.”
All pieces will be sold on a first-come-first-served basis and the sale will last until all stock is sold.
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