‘Massive loss’ as landmark Horsham shop closes

The Cloth Store, in the Carfax, closed its doors to the public for the last time on Tuesday, February 10, after the shop announced it could no longer afford to stay open.

Many loyal customers have visited the shop over the years to buy wool, fabrics and many other pieces of sewing equipment.

Owner Mary Escott said she was devastated the shop had been forced to close.

She said: “We have been in the town for 24 years and I am afraid to say the rent has become too expensive for us to be able to continue it.

“It has been a lot more than a shop, it has been a meeting place for people. It has not been a job.

“It has been a good few years the shop has been in the town and it has been really good fun whilst I have been here.

“It will be a massive loss.”

Mary took over the store 16 months ago and said she inherited a ‘brilliant’ team of staff and some very ‘loyal’ customers.

She said: “My staff have been brilliant so that’s a massive loss as well.

“Some of the members of staff have been here 15, 13 and 11 years. They have done a very good job and will be missed.

“The customers we have had have been so loyal over so many years. I would like to say thank you to them and we will miss them all.”

Mrs Escott confirmed the shop would not be moving to another location in the town and said she was not planning on re-opening the store.

She added: “I still have some stock left over which I can sell to anyone who is interested.”

To pick up the stock visit her Facebook page or contact [email protected]