Family garden shop shuts after more than 100 years

Owners Pauline and Steve Davis, recently announced their retirement from Webb's of Bearwood

A shop that sells "everything for the gardener" is set to close after more than 100 years in business.

Webb's of Bearwood, on Three Shires Oak Road in Smethwick, will see its doors shut for the last time on Saturday.

Owners Pauline and Steve Davis recently announced their retirement, saying five generations of their family had been involved in the store.

It was first opened in 1921 by Pauline's grandfather Oliver John Webb, and has been passed on down the years.

The couple met aged 14, but after school Mr Davis initially worked as a butcher before joining Mrs Davis at the garden shop after about 10 years.

"It was a bit of a change, butchery to plants," he said, "but we all mucked in and we went on from there."

Mr Davis said the teamwork had been the best thing about being part of the business.

There were "many, many hours behind the scenes that nobody sees," Mrs Davis added.

She said leaving the shop would be a "terrific shock" but that they both wanted to be able to enjoy their retirement while they were still healthy - and the family had plans to move to Cornwall.

Webb's of Bearwood has been trading in Smethwick since 1921

Mrs Davis said the final day would be emotional, but added she was looking forward to speaking to customers who call in to say farewell.

They will spend a fortnight clearing down the old shop before handing the keys back.

The downstairs of the building will remain a commercial unit, she said, and there would be a flat upstairs.

The family said the shop was renowned for its wide selection of seasonal plants, perennials, houseplants, and gardening tools, as well as its walled garden gift shop, which offered unique gifts, festive decorations and Christmas trees.

"The closure of Webb's marks not just the end of a business, but the conclusion of a beloved community institution," they said in a post on social media.

"Its presence on the high street will be deeply missed by locals who valued its personal touch and commitment to quality."

They thanked those who had helped them over the years – including customers as well as friends and family.