A popular shop which has served customers for decades has closed for good. Raymond's has long been a fixture of the Forest of Dean,Gloucestershire with a small number of shops operating at various locations in the region over the years.
The business was founded by Raymond Raymond almost a century ago, with the first storefront appearing in Coalway in the late 1930s. The entrepreneur died aged 89 in 1999, but his legacy has continued with successive generations playing their part in the life of the shops. In modern times, the business has consisted of a carpet retail store in Coleford, as well as a clothes and household items outlet on Newerne Street, in the town of Lydney.
But in a blow for locals, the latter announced it had pulled down the shutters for the final time on Saturday, March 28.
The family business appears to have begun operating in Lydney almost 70 years ago in 1954, when a wholesale textile business with a warehouse at the back was established, The Forest Review reports.
In the succeeding years, Raymond's became a mainstay of the town's shopping scene, selling menswear and ladieswear, shoes, and household items.
But the Lydney branch served customers for the last time last month, with Raymond's daughter Gloria and granddaughter Hayley behind the till as customers popped into the shop one last time.
In a post on Facebook on March 29, the team said: "Sadly, yesterday was our last day of trading, to all our lovely customers old and new, thank you for your custom and friendship over the years.
"Unfortunately, all good things come to an end. Wishing you all the best. Love Jane, Gloria, and Hayley," without elaborating on what led to the move.
They added that the Coleford store "remains open for all your rugs, mats and carpet requirements".
One person commented: "This is such a shame. Over the years we have always tried to use Raymonds for anything first before going to the big brands," while antother said they will be "greatly missed".
News of the closure was shared on the Lydney Community Group on Facebook, with previous customers flooding into the comments to voice their sadness at the store's departure.
One wrote: "What a sad day for Lydney, a real institution." Another said: "Such a shame, they will be missed."
A third added: "It's been the heart of lydney for as long as I've been alive and longer."
"So sorry to hear this but a huge thank-you to the family and staff who kept it going through difficult times."
