Diss jewellery shop to close after 94 years
L J Chapman jewellers at Diss which is closing. Picture: DENISE BRADLEY - Credit: Copyright: Archant 2016
It has been a part of the Diss community for 94 years, but LJ Chapman Jewellers will be closing its doors in March.
Owner Laurence Chapman has decided it is time to retire after taking over the shop from his father in 1979.
The family business was started by Mr Chapman's grandfather Francis Chapman in 1922.
He was an officer in the Royal Norfolk Regiment during the First World War but after he was injured, he chose to be a watchmaker and trained in Clerkenwell, London.
Mr Chapman, 73, said: 'I would like to thank my customers, a lot of which are friends, for their continuing support over the years.
'It's sad to have to close down.'
Mr Chapman has seen many changes over the years. When he started watches and clocks were mainly mechanical but today they are mostly battery or solar powered.
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The last day of trading will be on Saturday, March 26.
There is a closing down sale on all items except second hand.
Customers with repairs outstanding are encouraged to get in touch with the jewellers as soon as possible.
What are your memories of LJ Chapman? Email reporter Rebecca Murphy at rebecca.murphy@archant.co.uk or call 01379 651176.
