'Sunderland's losing another brilliant business' - what you said about closure of Charles Eagles and Son
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Seventy-three-year-old owner Brian Eagles has announced that the Maritime Street shop will cease trading after nearly half a century on Saturday, March 28, or even sooner if all stock is sold in an ongoing sale.
Brian, who founded the business in 1972 with late father Charles, has agonised over its future for around two years before eventually opting to take a belated retirement.
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Hide AdEcho readers swamped our Facebook page with dozens of tributes in response to our story about his decision.
Michael Butler wrote: “Very sad to see the closure of a city centre iconic business but well deserved retirement. Thank you and your family for wonderful service to Sunderland.”
Dot Lawson Brown said: “Happy retirement. I can remember having my first passport photo taken in the shop upstairs and was ready in a few minutes.”
Jean Rogers lamented: “Very very sad day amazing shop and staff going to be a really big miss. Sunderland’s losing another brilliant business.”
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Hide AdDawn Gibson wrote: “Really sad to see them closing. Amazing customer service and advice. Best wishes.”
Susan Tully said: “Happy retirement, you've provided a long and excellent service.
“I remember going into town and my late father couldn't pass without going in.
“And would send me to town to buy his bottles of developer and paper, if he was busy.
“Happy memories.”
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Hide AdKevin Coull wrote: “Very sad. That shop has been in the city since I was a kid. Bought a few cameras from them. Enjoy your well deserved retirement.”
Linda Gowans simply said: “No. What are we going to do for specialist advice?”
John Pallas added: “Another sad loss to our town.
“I spent many a time in there buying gear when I was a keen photographer.”
Ivor Prestwood said: “A very sad but somewhat expected day unfortunately.
“They epitomized quality service and products. It was always great to have such professionals at hand to answer my very naive questions.”