IN 1960, when in my midteens, I joined the Squires team initially as an assistant in the shop.

My interests and skills in all things electrical then allowed me into the workshop repairing both electrical, radio and eventually TV equipment. I was also very interested in tape recording, sound reproduction equipment, all kinds of music and broadcasting.

Working there until 1965, and for a short time in the early 1970’s, was a very good ‘apprenticeship’ allowing me to continue to develop all of these interests. Looking back — in many ways Squires was certainly the right place at the right time for me, opening many doorways into later work places including in the mid 1970’s an appointment in charge of archive technical facilities for the first sound broadcasting of Parliament.

Until my retirement I ran my own business specialising in the transfer of redundant audio media to modern formats.

I well remember Mr and Mrs Squire also with great affection, together with many a jaunt providing recording, background or other music for weddings, cheese and wine parties, fetes, etc. A highlight in this area might be the early 1960s White Hart New Year’s Eve staff parties which I’m sure went on far longer than they should.

They were held in the Oak Room and we used a 30 watt amplifier connected to a high quality Grampian loudspeaker perched on the grand piano. After the bars closed everybody from there piled in and using my own and shop records a good shindig was had by all.

Back in the shop, the severe 1962-3 winter brought in some of the oldest electric fires you could have imagined, plus I am sure I can remember the existence of an electric loo seat warmer! These are just some of the memories that have been revived by the passing of another local shop into history.

So — also from me “Thank you Squires for enduring me, and kick starting my career.”

An article ought to be written which would add to growing interests in retail outlets of this kind that are part of the fabric of our social history.

Phil Farlow, Abbotts Ann