A sad day as 50 years of retail tradition closes its doors in Henfield

If you have been up the High Street recently you will no doubt have noticed the prominent 'Closing Down Sale' posters in the window of GW Pearce, the gentlemens outfitters.

Sadly after 21 years serving customers in Henfield, owner Mick Patching, has no alternative but to shut up shop for good. Spiralling rent, rates and other bills have made the cost of running the small high street business unfeasible.

'It is a sad day to have to announce the closure, commented Mick. 'We have been squeezed on every front and have suffered the same pressures as every other small business. 'With bills going up by more than £100 per week it is just impossible to continue trading and make a living.'

Mick has been working in retail for over 30 years since he left school, originally working at his father's menswear shop in Hove. The shop was established by George Pearce in the 1960s and moved to it's current Henfield location 21 years ago.

Early beginnings: the original shop owned by Mick's dad 'Harringtons Outfitters' in Portland Road, Hove.

GW Pearce will certainly be missed by many locals and regular visitors.