A Gosforth-based hardware business will continue trading under the name Thorpes after being sold to a local family.

Opened as a supplier of household ironmongery in 1947 by Edward Thorpe, Thorpes of Gosforth is currently owned and run by the third generation of the family, brothers Colin and Peter who are both retiring this summer.

“When we put a sign in our window announcing the shop had been put up for sale our customers were most concerned,” said Peter Thorpe.

“We knew we had a loyal customer base in the area but still surprised when the announcement on Facebook attracted over 11,000 hits. There was much relief when we were able to inform them that it would remain a hardware store and be run by well-known and long-standing customers Fred Wilson and his son-in-law Mike Ryans.”

The Thorpes put the longevity and financial success of the store down to its excellent high street location, loyal customers and its ability as a small business to offer a friendly ‘old-fashioned’ and personal service.

“Colin and I are very pleased to leave the business in good hands, confident that customers will not really notice that it has new ownership from September 1,” concluded Mr Thorpe. “We will be around for a short time to ensure a smooth transition and we’re quite sure the business will continue to prosper for years to come.”