December 30, 2020 4.39 pm This story is over 39 months old

Lincoln jewellers shutting after over 70 years in business

Business owner and staff are retiring
John Storr (right), owner at HW Franklin in Lincoln, with fellow staff Colin McQueen (left) and Trudi Isles (centre). | Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

A jewellers that has traded in Lincoln for over 70 years has closed as the owner and staff prepare for retirement.

HW Franklin first opened on Grantham Street in Lincoln in 1949. It moved to near the old mini market that used to front onto the High Street before relocating to its current premises next to Madame Waffle in 1991.

Current owner John Storr, 67, worked for the business for 10 years before purchasing it from the previous owner in 1990, the year before its relocation. It then changed from being a traditional jeweller to one that specialises in pre-owned and vintage jewellery.

John Storr worked at HW Franklin for four decades and owned the business for 30 years. | Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

John told The Lincolnite that around 18 months ago he decided to close business and retire, but the coronavirus pandemic had no impact on his decision. However, Wednesday’s announcement that Lincolnshire will move into tier 4 at midnight on New Year’s Eve means the shop will close a day earlier than planned.

John works alongside shop manager Colin McQueen, 62, and shop assistant Trudi Isles, 68, who have worked for the business for 30 and 13 years respectively.

Stock in the windows of HW Franklin on the penultimate day of trading. | Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

John said: “I’d like to thank our many customers for their support over the last 30 years (since I took over).

“In many respects it is very sad to close and a lot of customers became good friends over the years. The three of us here are also good friends and have very much enjoyed working with each other.

“I am hoping to have a long and happy retirement with more time in the garden.”

HW Franklin on Lincoln High Street will close its doors for the final time on December 31, 2020. | Photo: Steve Smailes for The Lincolnite

John added that he believes there are currently no plans for what the future holds for the building.