Tockholes owner of Solitaire in Darwen to retire after 48 years

Solitaire, in Bolton Road, is now hosting a closing-down sale as owner, Jenny Grogan, prepares to retire. 

The 72-year-old, from Tockholes, launched the business in 1978 after being made redundant, opening in Duckworth Street. 

It moved to Bolton Road 32 years later, and has remained there since.

Jenny said: “I have been working here for 48 years, and I think it is time I gave it a rest.

“I got made redundant from my job and decided I had a flair for fashion, so I started this business.

“I have had a lot of support from customers – I have dressed three generations of people.

“I am so overwhelmed at the reaction the post has had on Facebook.

“It has been a pleasure and I’ve enjoyed every minute – but I think it’s time I took a step back and had a rest.”

She said everything in the shop is now on sale, so that stock can be cleared ahead of closing.

She said: “There is a sale on absolutely everything.

“We will close when the stock is gone, I will play it by ear, but it is looking like the end of March when we will close.”

She also thanked those who supported her over the decades.

She said: “I want to thank staff past and present and customers for the support they provided over the years.”

In a Facebook post, Ms Grogan reflected on nearly five decades in retail.

She said: “Our journey began back in February 1978 when my husband David and I opened a small ladies’ fashion boutique, and over the years we have served three generations of families and built relationships that have meant a great deal to me personally.

“After 32 years, we outgrew our original premises on Duckworth Street and later moved to Bolton Road, where the shop developed into a true destination location for customers who travelled from far and wide.

“Your continued support has sustained us through three recessions, Covid, and many changes in the world around us.

“During that time, Darwen itself has changed enormously.

“Through all those changes in work, community and everyday life, one thing has remained constant — the kindness, loyalty and support of our customers.”

Following the death of her husband David in 2018, Jenny said the shop became her source of strength and purpose.

She said: “The shop has been the one thing that has kept me going.

“That is why this decision has been especially hard to make, as the business has meant far more to me than simply a place of work.

“I would like to offer my sincere thanks to all our customers and suppliers for your friendship, trust, and support throughout the years.

“I am also deeply grateful to the past and present staff whose loyalty and dedication helped shape the business into what it became.”

Customers shared their memories and gratitude on social media.

One said: “Many years ago, I came to the shop to buy my wedding day outfit… you were amazing.”

Another wrote: “Wishing you a long and happy retirement, Jenny. I have loved coming to your shop since you first opened in Duckworth Street. Darwen will certainly miss you.”