55 and out

Yes we have come into the cricket season again but this is not about Cricket - so read on.

After trading in Portsmouth since 1950 (55 years) the Portsmouth Christian Book Centre will be closing down in the very near future.

The business was started by Iris Morgan after coming out of the Wrens. She started by using a cupboard in her parents' front lounge in Byerley Road, quickly moving to Arundel Street as the word got out and demand for Christian Books and teaching aids grew. Redevelopment of Arundel Street took her to Lake Road and then, for the same reasons, a move was made to New Road, where the shop has been for over 35 years.

Terry Cawte, who has managed the shop for the last 15 years needs to retire. He has been supported by his wife, who continued as a school teacher to provide the finances required for their family.

New owners have been sought for the past three years without success and as Terry is past retirement age and is feeling the strain of running the business, he has decided, with great reluctance, that he must call it a day.

The process of selling off stock will start from Monday 4th July, not an easy task with over twenty thousand items to sell. Why not go along and buy a book or two to donate to needy Christians in Third World countries, (a Collection point will be set up in the shop) going via Book Aid. Maybe you could buy early Christmas presents or love gifts for a friend or neighbour. Your support would once more be very much appreciated by Terry.