From empty marshland to the "jewel of the Norfolk Broads", there is plenty of reason to celebrate as Lathams of Potter Heigham turns 60. 

In 1962, Ken Latham, originally from Stoke, purchased a piece of marshland from local man Norman Sharman.

This was drained and the shop was built and opened to the public in 1963, which Mr Latham called his ‘Piscatorial Paradise' as a homage to his love of fishing.

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When he retired in February 1989, the store joined the family-run Norfolk discount group QD.

Eastern Daily Press: Ken Latham in his ‘piscatorial paradise’ during the 1960sKen Latham in his ‘piscatorial paradise’ during the 1960s (Image: QD Group)

In 1991, QD extended the shop with the addition of a garden centre and a china warehouse and in 2014 a dedicated Lathams Fishing Store was opened next door. 

To celebrate 60 years of trading, there will be a whole host of activities over the weekend of September 23 and 24 at Lathams of Potter Heigham, which is located in Bridge Road. 

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Nick Rubins, CEO of the QD Group, said: “Lathams has been a linchpin in Potter Heigham for 60 years and we are delighted to have played our part in keeping this Norfolk institution running successfully during this time."

Eastern Daily Press: John Goldie, store manager at Lathams (far left) and Nick Rubins, CEO of the QD Group (far right) with some of the Lathams team to celebrate the 60th anniversaryJohn Goldie, store manager at Lathams (far left) and Nick Rubins, CEO of the QD Group (far right) with some of the Lathams team to celebrate the 60th anniversary (Image: QD Group)

This weekend there will be 100 free goody bags for the first 100 customers on both days, free vintage open-top bus tours and Woodforde’s Brewery will be doing tastings with Lathams’ celebration ale Brew of the Broads.

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On Sunday there will be a charity auction, with proceeds donated to the Museum of the Broads.

Funds raised will be used to complete the restoration of one of Ken Latham’s boats, Esox Lucius II, which he used for pike fishing on the River Thurne.

John Goldie, store manager, added: “Celebrate with us and enjoy the history behind this jewel of the Norfolk Broads.

"It looks set to be an action-packed weekend with something for everyone."