Watton Stores

Toombs, Hairdresser and Perfumer was the gentleman who had the wonderful idea of creating Loch Neaton Pleasure Grounds that have provided so much pleasure to many generations Watton's inhabitants. His shop was where Weston's Cake shop was until last year and is now Alf's Cabs and Tea Caddy".

Sam Short, the baker who was the other gentleman who financed the lay-out of the Loch Neaton pleasure Grounds had this unique advert in the Almanack: - "His biscuits were good for the temper, Dread good for the stomach and baking powder that was good for the complexion". He should 3 done a flourishing trade in these wonderful aids. Later, John Moore and his son Donald, carried the bakers business and their shop and bakery is now displaying the latest in kitchen and bathroom equipment at the corner of Dereham Road.

In addition to selling stationery, toys and fancy goods, John Edwards was also a photographer and Bird Preserver and many an old picture in the town today was framed by him. His great grandson, Chris, is still carrying on in the same shop which in the last few years has been extensively extended as will be seen by comparing the old and recent photographs of the shop.

Lacey Vincent's Chemist, Druggist and Wine and Spirit Merchant's shop adjoined the Clock tower, and will be remembered by many older Wattonians. Upon his retirement the business was bought by Jas. Horsburgh and he and his son Deric, carried on there for many years and later it became Watton Pharmacy until King's Chemist was opened on the opposite side of the street on 11th Sep tember 1984. It will be noted that in 1891 Vincent's were offering Ale and Stout in 18, 9 and 4 1\2 gallon Casks at 1/- (5p.) a gallon. They also made their own special cures like Balsom of Honey for all chest complaints and "No shepherd should have been without Vincent's 'Powder's for Ewes' during lambing season". Lacey's brother Percy became Lord Mayor of London in 1936.

Stace & Harvey were Printers, Bookbinders and Copper Plate Engravers, later becoming Harvey & s. Printers and Stationers and are another long established Watton firm that is still in the same busi ness and now being managed by the third and fourth generations of their family.

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