Store makes stylish exit after 28 years (From Romsey Advertiser)
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Store makes stylish exit after 28 years
10:20am Thursday 5th April 2012 in News
Shop manager Christine Moore and proprietor Marilyn Husbands of Trowmill Classics in Romsey
THEY have helped women find the perfect outfit for the last 28 years.
But the end of an era is approaching as ladieswear shop Trowmill Classics bids farewell to Romsey and its loyal customers.
The shop, on Latimer Street, is to close due to its owner’s retirement.
It will remain open throughout April and possibly a few weeks into May.
Trowmill Classics opened in 1984 across the road, where Holland and Barrett now stands, but has been in its present location for the last 11 years.
The shop was originally one of a chain of seven including other branches in New Milton, the first to open in 1982, Ringwood, Gosport and Ferndown started by Marilyn and Jonathan Husbands.
But following the couple’s retirement five years ago, the other businesses have gradually shut, the Romsey one was kept open due to its dedicated management staff.
“It is the end of an era,” said Mrs Husbands, from Barton-on-Sea.
“We’ve had lovely customers, lovely people, we will miss them.
“Were retiring because we can’t go on forever.
“Fifty per cent of our staff is over 70, the rest of us are well over 60 and that’s a good enough reason for anybody isn’t it?”
She said she believed the shop’s personal service made it stand out and she also thanked their Romsey customers for their support.
“They mean a lot to us, they have been our bread and butter, they have been very loyal” she added.
“The reaction has been overwhelming - we have had tears.”
The four members of staff are Trixie Day, Sheila Whittle, Margaret Hardcastle and manager Christine Moore, who has worked there since 1985.
Christine said: “It will be sad in one way, but you seem to know when it’s the right time to go.”
Regular customer of 20 years Elaine Clyne, 84, of Horsebridge, near King’s Somborne, said she was dressed entirely in clothes from the shop.
She said: “I’m very upset. They're so nice and they know my size. It’s a very personal touch.”
Wendy Bryant, 82, of Middlebridge Street, Romsey, who has been coming to Trowmill for more than 10 years, said: "I have always been pleased with what I get here, they have always been so helpful. It’s a shame they’re closing.”
