From High Street Down To Memory Lane

From 6th January 2009 onwards, Woolworths, one of Britain's most loved High Street chain stores will disappear from the High Streets in UK, after enjoying remarkable longevity, almost 100 years. What a shame.

Despite its American roots, Woolworths somehow managed to assume a quintessentially British identity. The chain survived the austerity of the post-war years, the boom and bust of the Eighties and Nineties but the recent global financial crisis has finally brought the faltering retail gaint to its knees. It is hard to recall earlier recessions consigning such household names to insolvency.

Woolworths, a ubiquitous presence, was a childhood paradise of sweets, Chad Valley toys and 7-inch singles. It is also the home of the brand Ladybird. I grew up with Woolies, as it is commonly called. It is terribly sad that it is closing after a century in business.

My love affair with music started back in 1981 when I bought my first single from Woolworths. I have particular memory for many of my Duran Duran, Spandau Ballet, Wham purchases from Woolworths. Those were during my teeny days. I would saved up my pocket money and rushed to the local Woolworth to get the latest released single/album to add to my collection. Ha! I am showing my age I guess.

Not to forget the Pick 'n' Mix sweets counter where you were allowed to pick and mix your choice from a whole array of colourful yummy sweets. My favourites were Turkish Delights, Nougat, fizzy cola and miniature Bounty. Anyway, it really is awful to see somewhere I have so many fond memories attached to, disappearing forever.

No more pick 'n' mix. A bittersweet farewell to Woolworths!