End of an era: Wisbech butchers close after 107 years

After more than a century, a popular Wisbech butchers shop will be closing its doors for the last time on Saturday.

Townspeople have been going to G W Franks, in Market Place, to pick up pork joints for their Sunday roast or bacon for 107 years.

Current owners David and Christine Williams have made the difficult decision to hang up their aprons at 5pm on February 21, and go into semi-retirement.

The store had been passed down through the generations of Mrs Williams’ family.

Mr Williams said: “It wasn’t a decision we have taken lightly. We’ve done a bit of heart searching to reach this decision.

“We will be sad to close the store as it has been in the family for so many years.

“We have lots of fond memories of very good and friendly customers.

“We would like to thank all of our customers who have supported us over the years. We will miss them.”

The shop was founded by Mrs Williams’ great uncle in 1908.

Mrs Williams has been working at the shop for 47 years after stepping behind the counter to work with her father as a 13-year-old.

Her husband, who had previously worked in haulage, joined the family business 20 years ago.

The couple will remain living in the flat above the shop.

G W Franks remains a popular store with people travelling from miles around to pick up the delicacy of chitterlings, which is a pig’s intestine.

Sausages, bacon, haslet and other pork products were on sale in the art deco store.

The store, which has traditional chrome wall hangings, proudly sold pork until five years ago when they began to stock beef, too.

Mr Williams said: “We have really enjoyed our time.”