“So sad to hear this”
Percivals of Prestwich(Image: ABNM Photography)
A much-loved Prestwich business has said ‘we hope to see you again’ as its owners announced its closure on social media.
Percivals of Prestwich, situated in Prestwich Village, is a local newsagent, stationary and gift shop that has been a staple of the area for 45 years.
But in a statement online, its owners said they are having to close as soon as next month after being handed their notice by the landlord ‘due to the poor condition of the roof’.
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Nick and Christine Wood, who took over the shop 11 years ago, said they had been ‘unsuccessful in finding an alternative suitable premises’ but are hoping to be ‘back as soon as possible’.
A post shared online read: “It is with a heavy heart that Christine and I are announcing the closure of Percival’s of Prestwich on the 13th of September 2025. Our landlord has given us notice due to the poor condition of the roof.
“When we took ownership of Percival’s, we were told that we would only have three years trading as Prestwich village was to be knocked down for a regeneration project.
“Well, after 11 years, we are still here and have met some wonderful people all of which made us feel welcome within the village community.”
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The Prestwich regeneration, a joint project between Bury Council and Muse includes ambitious plans for a new village square, market hall, community hub and landscaped outdoor spaces. The plans will ‘overhaul the dated Longfield Centre site, revitalising Prestwich village with shops, community facilities, public green spaces and much-needed new homes’.
Work has already started on a new multi-storey car park for the village centre, which is currently under construction at the former surface car park on Fairfax Road.
The Manchester Evening News visited the shopping centre and asked what residents and visitors thought the area needed most. Read here.
Percivals of Prestwich(Image: Percivals of Prestwich)
The statement issued by Percivals of Prestwich continued: “Because of short notice we have been unsuccessful in finding alternative suitable premises within the vicinity of the village. We will continue to look and hope to be back as soon as possible.
“A big thank you for your friendship and loyal kind support you have given us over the past 11 years and we hope to see you again in the not too distant future.”
The post, which was liked hundreds of times, received a haul of comments, as one person wrote: “Aww sorry to hear this, a loss for Prestwich.”
Another said: “Sorry to hear this news. Lovely shop and helpful staff. Loved the celebration balloons and cards for every occasion.”
“So sad to hear this,” penned another. “I remember coming years ago with my grandparents and more recently with my children and you are always so warm and welcoming. I hope you do manage to find a new shop in Prestwich, as you really are an important part of the community. Good luck!”
As another read: “Aww I’m absolutely gutted to hear this, such friendly people who always go out of their way to help in anyway they can who never make you feel unwelcome when you visit the shop.”