Landmark shop closes
IT is the end of the road for the popular Walmer Park decor and gift store Woodstock, whose owner Lesley Tucker decided to shut shop at the end of last month after 23 years in business.
Tucker, 63, opened Woodstock in 1989 in Parliament Street, Central and moved premises five years later to the Walmer Park Shopping Centre.
The Walmer resident decided not to renew her lease as she felt it was time to retire and move on. She said she left it too late to sell her business as the lease had expired.
"I want to spend more time with my grandchildren,” said Tucker.
"I can now do all the things I couldn’t while I was working.”
She has "enjoyed every minute of it” and does not have any regrets.
The retiree is grateful for her loyal staff, some of whom have worked with her for many years.
She said she would miss her store, especially the customers and all the friends she made over the years.
"What I won’t miss is the paperwork,” laughs Tucker.
She is amazed at how many people wished her well by calling or sending cards, conveying how sad they were that Woodstock was closing.
Walmer Park centre manager Leonie Scheepers said it was a popular store, especially if you were looking for a gift for a special occasion.
"She also stocked items not always available elsewhere in Port Elizabeth. We will certainly miss having Woodstock and Lesley as part of the Walmer Park family,” said Scheepers.