One of Harwich's oldest businesses is to close, renewing concerns about the economic future of the town.
Bye bye baker - Frank and Liz Humphreys will shut their bakery in Harwich in a few weeks' time. Picture: TERRY WEEDEN
Humphreys, the only bakery in Harwich, will shut in a couple of weeks' time because of a massive downturn in trade.
The West Street shop has been in the Humphreys' family for nearly 70 years and the owners said they regretted having to make the decision to close.
Frank Humphreys, 69, said: "There are several reasons why we have closed and they are that we can't keep up with the competition from supermarkets and the parking has been a real problem.
"About 80 per cent of our business came from passing trade, but people haven't got anywhere to park, so they move on.
"During the summer, when the The Endeavour came down, it picked up a bit but we are not making enough money in the summers to see us through the winter."
It is expected to close on January 17 and be sold.
Published Friday January 9, 2004
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