My local branch of what used to be WH Smith is shortly
closing after being made to wait months to hear it is on the list of closures
drawn pup by Modella, the company who `rescued` the firm. Modella’s past
record is of making such deals then downsizing the estate before ultimately
winding up the physical business leaving either an online presence only or
nothing but empty units. There is no reason to believe the same will not happen
to the business latterly known as TG Jones. Yet for each shop closure there is
a story, a history beyond the unfortunate fate of those working there and
whatever has led down this final path. And this shop is almost the last one
left of those I remember from decades ago. Its impending closure will be a sad
day because I have so many memories of the place.
