Family’s farewell as Boston music store closes

Last day of trade for family-run music store. L-R Lillian Skinner with her daughter Natalie Skinner. EMN-191230-131751001

A family-run music shop in Boston has bid an emotional farewell to the town, thanking customers for their support in the run-up to its closure.

Nevermind the Music Store, in Church Street, ceased trading on Saturday, December 21.

The business launched in 2001 and over the years built up a strong following in the town. This was particularly evident on Record Store Day when music-lovers would queue up outside the shop before it opened in the hope of getting their hands on exclusive releases.

In October 2018, however, it was hit by tragedy when owner Gareth Skinner died suddenly, aged 50. Following his death, Gareth’s family took on the running of the shop.

Customer Neale Campbell, of Leverton, during the last day of trading.

Twelve months on from their loss, the family announced ‘with a sad and heavy heart’ the store would be closing. They explained at the time that the decision came as a result of changing consumer patterns due to the internet, but also the toll of losing Gareth.

In the run-up to the closure, customers had the chance to take home a memento of the business – one of the white cardboard packets used to store CDs, all featuring Gareth’s handwriting – in return for a donation to the British Heart Foundation. Shoppers responded and helped the family reach their target of £500.

Speaking to the Standard this week, the family said the closure of the store did not come easy, but paid tribute to the part played by customers in supporting them with their decision.

Lillian, 53, Gareth’s wife, said: “It was difficult to close the shop, but the people that came in before we closed made it worthwhile. Thank you to everyone that brought me flowers/gifts.

“I’m astounded by some people’s generous donations towards our collection for British Heart Foundation and really pleased we made it to £500. Gareth would be proud.”

Millie, 16, one of Gareth’s five children, said: “It was really hard to come in for the last day, but I’m glad I did because it was nice to see people one last time and have a chat.”

Fellow daughter Natalie, 30, said: “It was a hard decision to close the shop as it was Dad’s ‘baby’, it was more than a shop. The last few weeks have shown that. But now the family can have a bit of closure and have time to grieve.”