Burchall’s is set to close after 185 years of trading (Image: Google Maps Street View)
A much-loved bakery is set to close after serving a local community for 185 years. The historic family pie and pork butcher shop on Merseyside has announced its closure date and thanked its loyal customers for their support over the years.
Burchall’s, on Westfield Street in St Helens, dates back to 1840 and is considered an institution in the town. It is currently owned by 75-year-old John Burchall who is the great, great grandson of original owners Joseph and Elizabeth.
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A sign placed on the window of the bakery in the town centre announced that the business will close on Saturday, March 29. This date marks 30 years to the day since John took over the business following the death of his father.
The sign on the door reads: “It is with regret that Burchall’s will be closing down on Saturday 29th March. We would like to thank all our loyal customers who have supported us over many years. Thank you, J.B.”
It was previously reported that the Burchall’s building was put on the market for £225,000 at the end of last year. John confirmed he was planning to retire but with no feasible offers to buy the company, the decision has now been made to close it down.
John received a Special Achievement Award at the Pride of St Helens Awards last November. However, he admitted that he started to think about retirement after receiving the accolade.
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As reported by , John said: “When I received the award that made me think of retiring from after Christmas but I couldn’t do it because of the tradition, that was weighing heavily on me.
“It was only after I decided on March 29 and I told the staff, my wife noticed it is exactly 30 years since my dad died and left the business to me. I thought that has got to be fitting.
“I have experienced a range of emotions and that is why I couldn’t make the decision at Christmas. When I realised it was 30 years for me that was a sign.
“I’m sure word will get round and hopefully we’ll get good wishes. I am 75 and when I look round I just feel it’s time now.”