Shirley furniture shop Warne's to close as owners retire

Warne's on Shirley Road first opened its doors on April 10, 1998 - the day of the Good Friday Agreement.

But after many happy years, owners Nick and Ann Warne have decided to wave goodbye to Shirley for personal reasons. 

Nick and Ann lost their son Matthew in January. 

The couple had been considering retirement for several years, but the death of their beloved son acted as a wake-up call, reminding them that there is more to life than work.

Nick and Anne holding a picture of their son, Matthew (Image: Newsquest)

Nick, 63, told the Daily Echo: "Matthew was born 10 weeks prematurely and had cerebral palsy. 

"He was a great kid and really good at golf. I used to love playing golf with him.

"He used to dress smartly and cleanly. And since his passing, I have buried my head in work." 

Newsquest (Image: Newsquest)

Fighting back the tears, Ann said: "He used to help us around the store and would be here on his day off if we needed him.

"Life without him now is really hard." 

Matthew passed away at the age of 31.

His funeral in Hedge End was attended by well over 100 people who were keen to honour his memory. 

Although the last couple of months have been challenging, Ann and Nick are slowly moving on with their lives.

The Shirley couple will be closing the doors of their shop next month to catch up on their lifelong passions and hobbies.

Nick and Anne Warne (Image: Newsquest)

The pair, who haven't taken a single week's holiday for the past 24 years, will spend time travelling with their family up and down the country.

Nick said: "We have gone for a weekend getaway but never taken an entire week off because it's just the two of us running this shop."

"We have family in Cornwall, Bedford, America, and Australia. It'll be nice to see them all," added Anne.

While Nick will continue playing golf, Ann is looking forward to her long walks in Cornwall. 

The couple's shop has been a destination for those looking for assembled bedroom furniture such as beds, mattresses, headboards, and more.

Over the years, the long-standing business has gained popularity and respect among residents. 

The pair are well-known in the community for their service and products. 

They have thanked their customers, old and new, for supporting the shop throughout the years.

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