A LONGSTANDING shop in Launceston, recognised across the South West, opened its doors for the final time last Thursday (March 31). After 41 years of trading, Brian Hatch, owner of Tottles Music Shop, ceased trading as he prepares for retirement.

The shop will be largely missed by people of the town and surrounding area as the name 'A H Tottle Music Workshop' first appeared in the 1930s, when Arthur?Henry Tottle bought the premises.

It is thought that the shop was previously an architect's and then it was opened as a music shop supplying and selling to people across the South West. Mr Tottle retired at 80 and on January 1, 1970, Brian — who had previously owned shops in Helston, Truro and Plymouth — and his brother Evan took on the shop 'lock, stock and barrel'.

For a full report, see this week's edition of the 'Post'.