'OLDEST' DEALER CALLS IT A DAY
Established in 1797
Grass machinery specialists, Shorts of Whitburn, founded in 1797 (over 35 years before the invention of the lawnmower) is to close its doors in August.
Talking to Service Dealer, owner Tony Chambers said "It is something we have been considering for almost two years. Business up here in the North East of England has been really tough over the past few years. Now in my 70's myself, and with both me and my son Anthony havng a few health problems, we decided it best to take this difficult, and emotional, decision".
The 15,000 sq ft premises on a one acre site at Whitburn, Tyne and Wear has been sold with planning postion, which Tony says will largely secure the future for the family. Although the business was being offered as a going concern, no credible buyers came forward, so the stock is being sold off with a final dispersal sale planned for 21 August.
The firm is remarkable for having three generations working in the businss, Tony (above left) being joined by son Anthony (centre) and in 2013 by grandson Anthony (Junior) who joined from school.
Shorts held a number of main domestic and professional turf machinery franchises including Hayter, Toro, Allett and Baroness
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