Fears over closure of 'much loved' historic Mansfield haberdashery

David Marriott is the current owner of Sally Twinkle, a haberdashery that is based in part of the historic Handley Arcade, in Leeming Street.

Sally Twinkle first opened in August 1967, when Margaret Elliot decided to open up a haberdashery in the town centre. The shop has been selling sewing supplies to the people of Mansfield and the surrounding area for well over 40 years.

David, a close friend of Margaret’s, took on the shop after she died in 2007 at the John Eastwood Hospice after a short illness. She was not able to see the business celebrate its 40th anniversary.

But as David now nears retirement, Sally Twinkle is up for sale for offers of around £85,000 but so far no serious offers have come in.

“It is a very popular business,” said David. “We have had people coming in here for decades, and we have young people new to dressmaking and crafting also coming in.

“It’s a very viable business that could be a stalwart of the high street in Mansfield for many years to come if the right person comes along and acquires it.”

The shop sells a variety of items such as dressmaking material and patterns, buttons, wool, knitting and crochet wools and patterns, dressmaking patterns, fabric and the like. Some craft items are stocked also.

According to sales particulars, the business occupies units one to five in the arcade comprising a basement, shop floor and upper floor with offices. It has seven part-time members of staff covering three full-time equivalent roles.

The stock is in excess of £100,000 and is included in the asking price. The business has an online shop and makes good use of social media with its Facebook and Instagram accounts.

John Sankey, who is the chairman of Mansfield Business Improvement District, said: “It would be such a shame to see the name of Sally Twinkle disappear from the town centre.

"Many people have lovely memories of that shop, and I hope someone will step forward to take it on.”

People wanting to know more should contact Edwinstowe-based business transfer agents Ellis and Ellis on 01623 421493.