Veteran Wolverhampton store owner closes shop for the last time after 35 years serving his community

In their fifty-plus years together they've raised five children, all of whom have spent time helping out at the shop they co-owned. Eldest son Mahesh Chumber, 50, became the store manager for a time before pursing his own dreams.

But earlier this year - after careful consideration - local legend Gulzari has decided to close the shutters for good after making the decision to live out his twilight years with his wife on the beach with "a beer in hand".

Gulzari told the Express & Star: "I came from India when I was 11 years old, I went to school for four years before going straight into work. I bought this store 35 years ago, it was a dream come true.

"When I look back, it's the relationships we made that were the best parts of the job, it was important to us to keep them happy and we always made sure to speak to everyone that came in, I always got the impression that they enjoyed the chatting.

"But every area comes with its troublemakers and we sometimes had problems with teenagers, but only occasionally.

"The trade has changed so much over the years. Back in the day we were busier, but as the years went on huge supermarkets started appearing and of course that drew customers away from local shopping. We have lost a few older regulars too.

"Some of our favourite memories are when there was a birthday, either one of ours, the kids' or grandchildren's, we always celebrated at the shop."

Both Gulzari and his wife/co-owner Nachhatro both said the biggest thing they'll miss is socialising with their customers, but they can't wait to spend quality time with family that live abroad, some of whom they have not seen for a 'very long time'.

Guzari, said: "Being in the shop you meet a lot of people who live around here, socialising with them is something I'll really miss, some come in to have a chat and talk to us which is great, not having that routine will take some getting used to.

"But the truth is, we have done this for a long time now and it's time to start a new chapter. We want to spend time with family abroad and see family we haven't seen in a long time - friends as well.

"We'll spend time going on holidays together, and enjoying watching our children and grandchildren grow."

His son, Mahesh, has fond memories of growing up in his dad's store, helping stack shelves when he was in his teens and eventually going on to manage the store to give his parents some respite when they needed it.

He said watching his dad work hard every day instilled a work ethic in him which he has benefited from since, raising his own family and chasing his own career.

He said: "I was 15 years old when dad bought it, and I was happy to help him when he did, it was something I felt a responsibility to do.

"It was tough starting and I would always come and help him after school most days of the week, I was in charge of making sure stock was all on the shelves, serving customers and dealing with cash.

"Once I was old enough to drive I would do cash-and-carry jobs, I was told it was all 'voluntary work', but of course I was looked after, paid pocket money and I could eat and drink whatever I wanted.

"I have various memories of being here, as I grew older I had more responsibility so it became more serious and even my wife would help out for various years after we met.

"It has just been a part of our lives for so many years, I've had some really good times here, having a joke and a laugh with the regulars.

"But once I got married I stepped away a bit, pursing my own career and raising kids.

"It's a huge thing to finish, it's been with us for years but I'm so happy for them that they're closing up and retiring in good health, they really deserve their retirement."

Gulzari was thrown a surprise party on Saturday, August 24, hosted by his daughter Kamlesh. Friends, family and loyal customers shared memories, cut up a cake and had drinks to see off his tireless career keeping the shop open early and closing late so his neighbours could always get essentials when they needed them.

Speaking on the party, Gulzari said: "The retirement party was so good, a really nice get-together with family and regular customers, to be honest it was emotional for all of us on the day.

"My children set it up for me and we wanted to bring some food for the customers. When we came to the shop everyone was there with surprise cake and family.

"I think the best way we can sum it all up is that we're happy, the party was brilliant and we're looking forward to our future."