AN ESTABLISHED jewellers in Wimborne has announced it is to close its doors for good after 50 years.

Portique in East Street will hold a closing down sale, with all jewellery prices reduced by 50 per cent, when the store closes later this month.

The store was established in 1971 by Mr R E Porter, great uncle to current owner Neil Harkness who will retire when the store closes.

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Bournemouth Echo:

Husband and wife Neil and Elizabeth Harkness took the reins in 1997 when the business was located in Bournemouth’s Criterion Arcade.

The store was subsequently relocated to Wimborne in 2003 when the arcade was redeveloped.

Neil and Elizabeth have run Portique, with help from a team of staff and their three daughters, for more than 25 years.

Neil’s experience has included working for luxury retailer Mappin and Webb where he was based in their London stores, including their Harrods concession.

From there Neil went on to establish himself as a respected independent buyer and seller of fine jewellery and silverware. 

The couple eventually settled in the south west where they made the decision to purchase Portique due to its longstanding family connections.

Neil said: “The decision to close the business hasn’t been easy, but after such a wonderful career, I am ready to retire and spend more time with my family.

“I will miss our customers, who are such lovely people. It’s been a privilege to be involved with so many special occasions in our customers’ lives and that really has been the most special part of my career.”

Elizabeth added: “Portique has been a great place to be, with a fabulous customer base and hugely supportive staff who are an integral part of the Portique family. We will be very sad to say goodbye.”

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Bournemouth Echo:

The retirement sale at Portique will start at 10am on Saturday June 25 and continue until all stock is sold.

All jewellery in the sale will be reduced by 50 per cent, giving customers old and new an opportunity to bag a bargain.

Sale items will include diamond pieces, engagement rings, necklaces, coloured stone pieces, wedding rings, earrings, bracelets, pearl jewellery and more.

All stock will be sold on a ‘first come, first served’ basis, with all items available to take away on the day.