Mansfield Woodhouse resident David had been friends with founder of Sally Twinkle Margaret for more than 30-years when she sadly died on 15th February following a short illness and was therefore unable to see the popular business celebrate its 40th anniversary in August.

Speaking to Chad this week David said putting in an offer for the Handley Arcade based store is one of the best things he hs ever done and he is enjoying every minute of it.

"It was Margaret's wish for Sally Twinkles to be taken over or sold," said David. "I thought it would be a fitting tribute to her to keep it up and running as the same well-known business with the same staff so I put an offer in but did not expect to get it.

"To my surprise my offer was taken up and I took over the shop on 13th August with all the original staff remaining at the shop to maintain its unique friendly atmosphere as the girls definitely make the shop what it is.

And pictured, front left, with David is former Sally Twinkle employee Doris Lee who retired two years ago at the grand age of 91 proving that the staff really do love their job.

"The customers were just as pleased as the staff that Sally Twinkle would remain an institution for their every haberdashery need.

"I love the fact that customers come in with their children or grandchildren and really value the store that Margaret first set up back in 1967."

With the Twinkle Girls still working hard and a solid customer base David hopes Sally Twinkles will continue to grow and remain a success.

"I hope to develop Sally Twinkle in the future to benefit the customers and shop alike by developing the upstairs room.

"I'm really proud to have taken over the store and I think it's a great way to keep the memory of Margaret alive as I'm sure she is watching over us smiling."

LINK: Sally Twinkle

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