Family memories, from Fay Hampson
Hampson’s Bakery in Charles Street, Wrexham
My grandparents, Herbert and Mary Hampson, ran their bakery in Charles Street from before the First World War, until they sold it sometime after the Second World War. It went through several changes after that time and was in a sorry state by the 1960s, as can be seen from the colour photograph. Compare that with the splendid photograph of the shop taken in its heyday.
The premises date back to at least the 17th century. My father, Jeff, was born there in 1918 and I remember him telling me how he found some Charles I coins under the floorboards, and how as a boy he used to nip into the storeroom for a handful of nuts and some cream to add to his breakfast cereal. I wonder where the coins are now.
Grandma did all the bookkeeping for the business and as I write I am sitting at the very same desk she used all those years ago. If only it could talk!
On Christmas Eve the staff brought their Christmas poultry to the shop to roast in the bread ovens.
Grandad died in 1982 aged 96 and Grandma in 1985 aged 94. They were both fit, well and independent until shortly before they died.
Living in South Wales, I am unable to see Charles Street as it is; I believe it has been restored. My grandparents would have been happy.
• If you have any memories or photos to share, you can submit them here or email claire.pierce@newsquest.co.uk
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