'It's so sad': Hundreds share sorrow at loss of legendary Halesowen clothing shop shutting after 144 years
Scores of Black Country people have shared their farewells to one of Halesowen's most loved clothing stores.
Dancers of Halesowen, in Peckham Street, have announced that they will close their doors after 144 years of serving the people of the community.
The shop was founded as John Dancer's Show and bootmaker in 1880, forming part of a row of shops in Lye High Street in Halesowen.
The group announced the closure in an emotional post on Facebook.
They said: "It is with great regret that we announce the closure of our shop in Halesowen, which will happen sometime in mid-December. However, our Schoolwear will remain online for the foreseeable future.
"It was a difficult decision to take after 144 years of trading as well as our association with the town of Halesowen, especially as it has been in the Dancer family for 5 generations. However, for various reasons, we as a family cannot feasibly keep the business going as it is.
"We would like to take this opportunity to firstly thank our loyal staff both present and past, for all their hard work and support over the years. Could not have done it without you all. And a massive thank you to all our customers, as if not for you we would not have traded for the last 144 years and thank you very much to the community of Halesowen for all their support.
"Love the Dancers team and family."
'Thank you for your service'
Now, after announcing their upcoming closure in mid-December, hundreds of people have taken to Facebook to leave their condolences at the loss of the much-loved business.
Facebook user, and staff member at Dancers, Margaret Horsburgh, said: "So very sad. Worked for Dancers for many years, nowhere like it, a lovely family business.
"I would like to give a big thank you to Mike, Dave and Jan for being the best and nicest bosses you could work for. Have made such wonderful friends and colleagues at the shop. Dancers will be very much missed in Halesowen."
The shop is said to close in mid-December, however, their range of school uniforms will remain on sale online 'for the foreseeable future'.
Another Facebook user, Mick Freer, said: "A big loss for Halesowen and a difficult time for the family.
"Thank you for the service to the Town."
The group thanked their 'loyal staff, both past and present', also thanking all of the customers who visited the store over the years.
Facebook user Emma Cartwright said: "Such a sad day. Dancers is an institution. Thank you for all your efforts.
"This country is in a terrible state and I feel we are losing and changing so much."
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