After a working career spanning five decades, Vanessa Ford has decided to it is time to retire.
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At 4.30pm on Friday, June 30, she will close the doors to Vanessa’s Wool 'n' Craft for the final time.
“I’ve been working for 50 years, I feel ready to retire,” she said.
Vanessa bought the shop from Sharon Parsons 20 years ago.
“Back then it was known as Trumps and it was situated where the barber shop is now,” she said.
“A few years later, Donna Marie Fabrics closed down so I moved into this much larger space a couple of doors up. I’ve been here for 15 years.”
Despite looking forward to her retirement, Vanessa said she will miss her customers and their friendship.
“When I first came to Parkes, I only knew a handful of people,” she said.
“I have made a lot of friends through the shop, not only in Parkes but in surrounding areas as well.
“I wouldn’t have been able to run the business without the help and support of some very valuable friends.”
Vanessa has held classes in patchwork, beading and crocheting every week, and hosted workshops featuring international tutors when they were available.
“I’d really like to thank everyone for their loyal custom over the years,” she said.
“But I’ll be here for the next two weeks, so there is plenty of time to come in and say hello.
“There are still quite a few bargains to be had, with lots of stock marked down to half price.”