The owners of The Pirate and Bluebelle, Heather McCulloch and Nick Summers, have revealed that they will be shutting up shop on the gallery on January 17.
In a video posted on social media, Heather said the business partners had made the ‘very difficult decision’ to close the shop – and thanked the people of Inverclyde for their amazing support over the years.
Heather and Nick spoke about the shop in a video on Facebook (Image: Facebook)
Heather said she and Nick wanted to ‘quit while they were ahead’ and stated that the last couple of years had been really challenging for their ‘wee business’ on Kempock Street.
Heather added: “We’ve had increased running costs which everyone feels across UK, and reduced footfall as people are just not spending as much.
“We’ve also become victims of our own success as we’ve hit VAT registration, which has been a massive challenge.
“We don’t quite know what’s ahead for The Pirate and Bluebelle.
“When we look back on the time that we’ve been here, it will be with happiness and joy and a recognition that it was always much more than just a shop.”
Heather and Nick met when they were pupils at Greenock High School and reconnected at a reunion when they both turned 40.
They realised they both had a love of photography – and started the business with five photographs of Gourock and a budget of £75.
Heather said that over the last 12 years, people from all over Inverclyde have come into the shop to share their stories and their secrets.
She added: “It’s a really special place.”
Heather and Nick thanked all of the artists they’ve worked with over the years, and said they helped make the gallery the vibrant place it is today.
They also said a huge thank you to all of their customers and supporters.
Heather added: “Without you, we would never have lasted 12 years on Kempock Street.
“I think that’s an absolutely amazing achievement.
“It’s been such a long period of time to be in business, and we’re really proud of that.
“When we look back it will be with sheer joy.
“We hope that you’ve enjoyed our business as much as we have.”
Nick added: “It has been a hoot.”
Well-known figures from all over Inverclyde took to social media to share their sadness at the news.
Artist Alec Galloway said: “Heartbroken but totally understandable.
“Love you both, you will be missed more than you know.”
Gourock councillor Sandra Reynolds added: “Gutted for you but I understand why.
“Folk think that Gourock businesses are flourishing because of independent shops like yours but circumstances beyond your control take their toll despite your hard work.
“You’ll be missed.”
Mairi Coventry, owner of The Wee Crafty Owl on Jamaica Street in Greenock, said: “I’m so sorry to hear this.
“Your wee treasure trove is wonderful and will be missed.
“I feel the government just hit small businesses in so many ways.”