Beekers co-founder steps back after 40 years

Mr Le Prevost, who turns 80 in September, has handed over the reins to Ann Mourant and her husband, Dave.

The couple already take in and deliver ironing through their business Iron Maiden.

‘We are really looking forward to it. I have been wanting to cut my hours in half at Iron Maiden and buy another business,’ said Mrs Mourant.

The shop, which predominately sells greeting cards and stationery, has operated from the Bridge for the last 16 years after nearly three decades in Market Square, and an 18-month stint in Mill Street.

‘We saw that Brian was going to retire and it seemed like a great opportunity,’ said Mrs Mourant.

‘There is nothing we are currently planning on changing about the business at the moment, it is a fantastic shop.

‘It has been built up over so many years and it really has been run perfectly.’

Mr Le Prevost founded the shop with his friend Brian Duquemin and his nephew Shane Le Prevost in 1975.

‘I am looking forward to having a bit more free time now,' he said.

'It will be nice to not have that constant daily routine, and I am sure my wife will keep me busy and give me things to do,’ he said.

‘Beekers is definitely going to be kept in safe hands with Ann and John coming in, they are extremely enthusiastic about the shop and they are ready to take over.

‘Angeline Bowring and Avril Renouf are both going to be continuing at the shop which is great – they have been my A-Team for so long.

‘I will definitely miss working here, though it is the right time to retire.

‘We have a lot of loyal customers and there have been quite a few people who have seen me and said they are going to miss seeing me, which is really nice.’