Gorleston shopkeeper couple are making their own news

Stack of cards for the retirement of newsagents Nero and Mila Nathwani (Image: Archant)

Nero and Mila Nathwani have served generations of customers at the Costcutter store in Bridge Road, Gorleston, regarding many as personal friends.

Having worked hard to build up the business nothing was too much trouble for the pair who always went the extra mile, and were more than happy to do it.

Mr Nathwani said on occasion he had dropped off milk and bread to ragged regulars arriving home from holiday to find the cupboards were bare.

And he even recalled heading off a baking emergency by taking a box of icing sugar to a customer who found she was missing an ingredient half way through the process.

The couple who have three children and three grandchildren sold the business on January 11.

It marks the end of the era for the family as well as their loyal patrons many of whom did their main shop elsewhere but always came to Bridge Road for their newspapers, lottery and top-up supplies.

Mr Nathwani, 65, said he would miss his many customers who had been faithful over the years.

Their last two weeks' of service was marked by a constant procession of people bringing cards and flowers and their good wishes.

He said he and his wife could not have wished for a better welcome 27 years ago when they came to the area, or a better send-off as they said their goodbyes.

The couple, who live in Burgh Castle, had been totally overwhelmed by the kindness of their customers and wanted to convey their heartfelt thanks and appreciation.

'We have seen people grow up and bring their own people to the shop. We know everybody, their whole families. So many people have been good customers and friends.

'We would not have lasted all this time if it had not been two way traffic in this day and age when people have to save every penny possible. They always came to us for their newspaper, lottery and fill-up shop. They have been so loyal.

'When we came people had never seen an Indian couple running a business but they took to us very nicely. Slowly we made sure it was not only a shop, it was a community shop.

'We re-fitted the shop three or four times but never closed and it made for some laughs. At first used to work 16 or 17 hours a day but we enjoyed it because the customers were so good to us and were interested in us.

'The last two weeks were really emotional. The customers were saying that they would miss us but that we deserved a retirement. They were understanding but we will miss them and they will miss us. It will take time to settle.'

The couple hope to spend more time with their children and grandchildren in London and Bristol.