Bungay business Wightmans to close its doors in June 2024

But now after 163 years, Wightmans in Bungay has announced it will officially close its doors at the end of June.

Since it was established by Henry Wightman in 1861, Wightmans of Bungay has seen many changes, survived a wartime Nazi bomb and prospered through six generations of their family.

For about the first century of its long history, Wightmans specialised mainly in drapery, floor coverings, bed linen and lingerie.

H. Wightman & Son is to close its doors for the last time in June 2024 (Image: Denise Bradley)

Bungay town centre covered in snow, 3rd January 1969 - with Wightmans pictured in the background (Image: Newsquest Archives)In the 1930s the business expanded into a building which had formerly served as the town’s fire station.

Its stock in trade also expanded to include furniture and furnishings.

A statement from business owners, siblings John and  Jane Wightman, said: "It is with great sadness that we announce the shop will be closing and we will be retiring at the end of June.

"It has been a great pleasure to run the family business for so long, but we are looking forward to being able to have time to do our own things.

"We would to thank all the customers, old and new, who have supported us over the many years and ultimately kept us going.

"We are really proud to have kept the business going for long but now is the right time for us all."

George V Coronation celebrations outside of Wightmans in Bungay in June 1911 (Image: Submitted)

When asked what their favourite day for the business, in a statement they said, though it was before their time, it was George V's coronation celebrations.

"The George V Coronation celebrations in June 1911 were in full swing - the shopfront was adorned with patriotic decorations, proudly displaying the colours of the Union Jack.

"Excited onlookers watching from the balcony above the shop.

"A crowd had gathered, eagerly anticipating the festivities. Children, dressed in their finest clothes, paraded with excitement, while the sound of music filled the air.

"The shop's windows showcased commemorative memorabilia, capturing the spirit of the coronation.

"Laughter, chatter, and a sense of community filled the scene as Bungay came together to celebrate the ascension of their new monarch."

H Wightman & Son Ltd pictured from the back/side of the grand building (Image: Denise Bradley)

Fundraising for the Great War in 1917 outside of Wightmans in Bungay Market Place (Image: Newsquest Archives)

Celebrations in Bungay Market Place for Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee, June 22nd, 1897 (Image: Newsquest Archives)