The division retailer will probably be closing on the finish of the month.
The shop is closing after 4 a long time (Picture: Google Maps)
A cornerstone of Bridport’s retail scene is about to shut its doorways after greater than 4 a long time of serving the area people. Lilliput’s Textiles and House Retailer, positioned at 58 West Avenue, has introduced it is going to be closing on the finish of March as proprietor Lillie Foster prepares for retirement. The unbiased retailer, recognized for its big selection of homeware and materials, has been a fixture within the city because it first opened in 1984.
The shop initially started operations at St Michaels Buying and selling Property earlier than relocating to its present West Avenue premises in 2005. Through the years, Lilliput’s developed a popularity for each retail and wholesale, with inventory reaching clients as far afield because the Falkland Islands.
Lilliput’s division retailer is closing after 40 years (Picture: Google Maps)
As reported by Bridport & Lyme Regis Information, Ms Foster mentioned: “Within the early days we had a lorry come to load up and it was taken on a ship to the Falkland Islands as a result of we used to do wholesale. It went everywhere in the world.”
The property formally went available on the market in August 2025, with a “on the market” signal posted on the historic West Avenue constructing. The store spans over 500,000 sq. ft.
Ms Foster expressed her gratitude to the neighborhood for his or her loyalty through the years.
She mentioned: “Now we have made many pals, and we’ve got been appreciative of all our clients’ assist over the past 40 years.
“The employees which have been there, many for over 20 years, they’re clearly unhappy to be going. We thank all of the employees and all our clients.”
The Grade II listed constructing has now been bought and will probably be taken over by Weldmar Hospicecare. The Dorset-based charity gives specialist end-of-life take care of adults with a life-limiting sickness and assist for his or her family members.
Ms Foster added: “We’re delighted that we’re handing it over to such a well-loved charity. We’re glad to be passing it on to them.”
Customers are being invited to browse the remaining inventory earlier than the closure, together with upholstery objects, kitchenware, and different house necessities, with particular reductions supplied within the retailer’s closing weeks.
The Specific beforehand reported that the city has 200 unbiased outlets, 35 nationwide chains and a bustling bi-weekly road market.
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Among the many city’s different historic companies is RJ Balson and Son, a family-run butcher established in 1515, and Snooks the Hatters, based in 1896, which claims to inventory Europe’s largest assortment of Panama hats.
The city additionally options a wide range of vintage, classic, and artwork shops, reminiscent of Sladers Yard Gallery and Artwave West Gallery.
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