An "iconic" pie shop that has sat at the heart of a community for almost 70 years is set to close its doors.
E & C Greenall in St Helens has been a staple of local cuisine for 68 years, serving up pies and desserts to workers and families across the town. The Duke Street bakery was opened by Elizabeth Greenall in 1954.
Elizabeth's son Colin began began helping his mum and working at the store when he was just 10 years old and has looked after the shop ever since. He took over Greenall's in 1970 and spent years fighting off stiff competition to excel in the town.
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The 78-year-old said he made "lots of great memories" in the store over the years and became a pillar of the local community. Despite his incredible career serving the people in St Helens, Colin has made the difficult decision to retire.
His incredible 68 year career will come to an end in November and has left people in the area devastated. Customers have shared messages of support as Colin announced he would be retiring last week, with doors closing in November. Annette Nolan said: "Oh no, just learned that the best pie shop in St Helens will be closing in November, going to miss Greenalls."
Christine Henderson Sterry said: "One of the first pie shops I was introduced to when I started work at Pilks Cowley Hill. Colin hasn’t changed just his hair is white now. I guess they can’t go on forever but I will sincerely miss his baking."
Some of the favourites served at Greenalls include steak pies, vanilla slices, and barm cakes. Irene Cotham said: "Sad to hear - the best Steak pies for me and Barm cakes. But wishing you well in your retirement Colin."
In response to the messages, Colin said the appreciation "means a lot", and plans to spend the time with his daughters and grandchildren after retiring.
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