Goodwins Jewellers in Hanley to shut as owner retires

Goodwins Jewellers opened on Hope Street in Hanley in 1874

What is thought to be the oldest shop in Stoke-on-Trent city centre is about to close after nearly 150 years.

Goodwins Jewellers, in Hanley, is beginning a closing down sale on Saturday, before shutting for good once the stock has been cleared.

The owner of the shop, on Hope Street, said that retiring had been a difficult decision to make.

Sue Goodwin said the jewellery business had been her life, but she had never had a holiday of more than a week.

"So, while I'm fit and well, and able to start this process, it is the time to do it," she said.

Owner Sue Goodwin said she was trying not to think about when the shop door closes for the last time

Ms Goodwin started working in the shop on Saturdays at the age of 14.

Even before that though the business was the conversation around the family dining table, so its history had played on her mind as she considered retirement.

"I've been thinking about this for the last few months, it is very hard," she said, especially because she had decided not to sell the business on.

"I just don't think it is the time for investment in bricks and mortar."

Goodwins Jewellers has a long history in Hanley

Emptying the premises once it finally closes will also be a challenge.

"We are a family of hoarders, and it is a huge property that was three terraced houses," she said.

"We have got 150 years of old window displays, all sorts of things."