Last serve for the Sheffield region's racquet specialists
IT'S game, set and match for retailers John and Sue Howard next week, as the area's only racquet sports specialist shuts up shop for the last time.
Racquets, in Division Street, has served Sheffield's court sports enthusiasts loyally for 30 years.
But the time has come for John and Sue to retire and, with no potential buyer in the market, they have no alternative but to close the store.
"That's the disappointing thing from our point of view," says Sue. "You feel as though you're letting people down but unfortunately you have to hang your hat up.
"The business hasn't changed much over the years and we've known a lot of our customers for 30 years or longer. We've seen their families grow up, too. That's what we'll miss most."
Racquets was founded when John, a silversmith by trade, had trouble finding the right equipment for his other passion, tennis.
The Division Street premises became vacant and the couple decided the best way to plug the gap in the market was to set up their own business, offering a re-stringing service, too.
They began stocking some of the top brands and gradually built up a comprehensive range of racquets, clothing, footwear and accessories, specialising in squash, badminton and racquet ball as well as tennis.
Word spread and the store was soon dispatching orders further afield – a side of the business that expanded with the launch of an online service.
"It's surprising," says Sue. "People live here, move down south and recommend us, so we end up supplying people all over the country.
"We've had some good customers, but Boris Becker never called to see me…"
The shop will close its doors for the last time on Saturday, September 6. Meanwhile there are some smash hit bargains to be had, particularly with junior equipment and clothing.
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Weather for Sheffield
Wednesday 08 February 2012
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