05/02/13…… Swan Walk shops say ‘farewell’

THREE businesses in Swan Walk, Thame, are to shut up shop at the end of March, bringing the total of empty units in the area to five – but they insist that it?s nothing to do with a rumoured rent rise.

The three shops, Ricochet Fashions, Arts Desire and Charlotte’s Webb, have decided to close for different reasons but at the same time, because all their leases happen to end in March.

Nita, the proprietor of Ricochet ladies fashion boutique, said: ?I have devoted six days a week to this business for years and the lease coming to an end just seemed to be the right time to take a rest and then try something completely different while I still have the energy. I have made a good living out of the business but I just didn?t feel enthusiastic enough to commit to a new lease.?

Barbara Collins in Arts Desire next door, said: ?I have stood up behind this counter for 16 years, and like the other two, the commitment of a new lease didn?t appeal. Arts Desire is a good business and we want to go out on a positive note.?

Trish, who runs Charlotte?s Web, a childrens? clothes shop, has been in Swan Walk longer than any of them. She said: ?I have been here for 19 years and seen lots of changes in the Walk. I have no idea what I will do next, but the ending of the lease and the other two finishing as well, it seemed to make sense to call it a day and to move on.?

Swan Jewellery closed its doors finally due to the retirement of its owner through ill health.

The joint message from all the shopkeepers in Swan Walk is: ?We would like to thank all our loyal customers, many of whom have become good friends over the years, for all their support.?

PHOTO: Courtesy of Frank Millar