People have shared their memories and spoken in sadness after a popular family business in Mapperley announced it will close after 40 years. The family behind Diddlyland on Woodborough Road confirmed the closure after all the "wonderful" years.
The shop, which sells baby products to parents and families, will shut in June. It is run by Ben Bedward, 70, and his daughter Haley, and all stock must go in a retirement sale.
After Nottinghamshire Live reported news of the closure, readers took to Facebook to share their childhood memories of shopping at Diddlyland and they wished Mr Bedward a happy retirement.
Joanne Coulter recalled the years she bought items for her children from Diddlyland. She wrote: “I loved shopping at Diddyland. I've had all my prams / pushchairs from there for my 2 sons and daughter starting in 1986, 1988 and 1992. I still have my daughter's up in the loft and she’s 30 next week. Enjoy your retirement. “
Another commenter, Kel Herrick, remembered the many products that she has from Diddlyland and shared how they were passed down to close family and friends. She said: “I'm so sorry to read this - we have shopped for all our four children's prams here, bought the cot that saw our children, niece and friend's son through the nights and mattresses, clothes, blankets and toys
“Loved browsing around when pregnant. Everyone is so friendly and welcoming. My eldest is 22 now. Enjoy your retirement, very well deserved and thank you.” Christine A Etches wished Mr Bedward a happy retirement and also highlighted the lovely owners.
She said: “We have bought several items from there over the years for our babies. A lovely shop and lovely people who owned it never too much trouble; always very helpful. My youngest baby is 33 years old now. HAPPY RETIREMENT TO YOU.”
Another Facebook commenter, Angela Gorski, said: “Sending you good wishes, we've all bought our baby necessities from you, lovely quality and great service always.” Nottinghamshire Live has been told the store has been "rammed" since the sale launched, with lots of customers coming in and buying products.
Mr Bedward reassured customers that any remaining stock will be moved to their showroom around the corner for collections after the shop closes. He plans to spend his retirement watching his grandson Miles Knight, a local musician, as he plays local venues and festivals he has coming up.
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