It was with mixed emotions that a butcher shut his family’s business for the final time, after 100 years of trading from the same shop.
H Hartwell and Son opened its doors at 90 Brigstock Road, Thornton Heath, on August 4, 1914, the day Britain declared war on Germany.
Customers in the area were desperate to see the business stay open but owner Robert Hartwell had no one to hand it down to.
Customer Robert Francis with his last purchase from H Hartwell and Son
His son works as an accountant and although his grandsons are interested in butchery none of them have yet to reach double figures so cannot take the shop on.
Mr Hartwell said his customers did not take news of his retirement well.
Robert Hartwell with friends and staff members Trevor Floodgate and Paul O'Sullivan
He said: “I’m quite pleased about retiring but my customers did not want me to go.
“I had been gradually feeding them information for a year but none of them were listening.
“I have done 50 years full time and four years before then and started when I was about 11.
“I feel guilty and I feel sad and I feel happy and I feel everything at the moment and I feel very mixed emotions but confident I’m doing the right thing.”
The 65-year-old was ill with cancer five years ago and said he is retiring now so he can enjoy having a few healthy years with his wife.
Mr Hartwell said: “First of all I am going to slow down a bit instead of living life at 100 miles an hour.
“I’m going to get my thoughts together.
“I would like to say I’m going on a world cruise but that’s a lie.”
He said he will miss all of his customers who have all become his friends and added: “My favourite time in the shop was when my dad was alive and we worked as a great team.
“Every day is a happy day in here and that is why it is so sad to close.
“I have seen families grow up and seen their children grow up and they have seen me grow up.
“ I have customers who say ‘I remember you in short trousers’.
“A big thank you to all the customers that have supported us over the years. It is very much appreciated.”
H Hartwell and Son staff (L to R) Trevor Floodgate, Robert Hartwell, Dominic Shepherd and Paul O'Sullivan
What will you remember most about H Hartwell and Son? Add your comments below or send us a letter by emailing letters@croydonguardian.co.uk.
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