Southampton butcher's shop closes after 16 years with couple set to retire

The husband and wife duo behind Kemptons of Bitterne, Mick and Audrey Kempton, have said it is "finally time" to shut.

Known for its variety of fresh meat and pastries, the independent shop in the heart of Bitterne precinct will close next month.

Mick, 64, who has been working as a butcher since he was 14, will retire alongside Audrey and move to Cyprus where they have bought a new home.

READ MORE: Southampton fish and chip shop closes in cost of living crisis after 15 years

Audrey, 62, said: "Our son Sam helped us for a long time but he is moving on to his own career so we thought it was the best time we go.

"It means we can spend time with our grandchildren and relax.

"Working for so long and especially after Covid people lost their kindnesses a bit so it's time."

Audrey and Mick Kempton (Image: Hannah De Boltz, Newsquest)

The pair worked through the pandemic to create a delivery service for elderly and vulnerable residents.

Mick said customers have been happy for the couple despite the closure.

He said: "Our regulars are sad to see us go but are happy for us which is nice.

"We've told all of them our plans and we're just excited to take a step back after so long."

Audrey added: "Most of our customers know by now and 99 per cent of them are happy for us and pleased to see us do well.

"We've been here for a long time and have taken on a lot of challenges: Covid, lockdown, now the cost of living. 

"None of that is going into why we are retiring because we worked through it really."

"Covid definitely finished us. We are just a bit tired, and it will be good for us to go onto our next steps."

Over the years the couple trained young butchers to keep the trade going.

Mark Blake (Image: Hannah De Boltz, Newsquest)

Mark Blake, 21, from Bitterne has worked at the business since he left school at 16.

He said: "They took me on when I was a teenager and I have learned a lot with them. I will be going on to work on marquees across the country with my dad.

"They think of themselves as my grandparents and they are like family to me.

"It's a real shame that this place is going but I will keep in touch with them still."

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