Pick ’n’ mix, the record counter, a birthday present bought with saved-up pocket money. Woolies was the sort of shop you wandered into for one thing and came out remembering ten others. What did you always head for first?
The picture here shows the Rayners Lane branch in Harrow during its closing-down sale in December 2008. It is a later photograph, but the red sign may take you straight to a much earlier Saturday morning. Your own branch might have been around the corner, on the way to school or the first stop after receiving birthday money.
Every branch had its own memories
For one person, Woolworths means sweets. For someone else it means records, toys, Christmas decorations or a first Saturday job. Remembering a shop is also remembering the people who made it part of everyday life: the person behind the counter, the friend you met outside and the relative who always stopped for a look. The most useful contributions include a branch location and approximate year, so other visitors can recognise the same place.
What do you remember?
- Where was your local Woolworths?
- What did you always buy or look at?
- Did you or anyone in your family work there?
Share a memory in the comments below. An approximate year and a town or place help other people find a connection. Please avoid posting private contact details.
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