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Belfast Live
Belfast Live
National
Orlaith Clinton

Downpatrick couple share fondest memories of 32 years in business on Market Street

The owners of a Co Down shop which has helped generations dress for their weddings, christenings and first days of school, have thanked their customers for ongoing support.

Minder's Menswear, in Downpatrick, has been serving the community from their Market Street store for the last 32 years. From first pairs of jeans to school blazers, the Smyth family has been a staple part of the town since their opening.

Speaking to Belfast Live, Liam Smyth said they will always welcome people through their doors, and be there for them when needed - and now and again, he says they will put on a sale.

Read more: Co Down cafe serving generations over 40 years in the community

"On the 10th of October, 1990, Minders Menswear was born," he said.

"We were in the wee shop which was next door to where we are today. That was our original shop, and in those days it was all about jeans. Everybody wanted 501s. All the young girls and boys wanted them.

"It has been a journey to take us to here and we are delighted that we are in the purpose built shop now. It is our birthday, and we are 32 years in business this month.

Liam and Susanna Smyth (Justin Kernoghan/Belfast Live)

"We have all the school uniforms and very proud to stock the uniforms for local primary schools and the boys and girls schools in the local area. We have a suit department and a shoe department too.

"Of course, we are famous for jeans. There's not too much that Minder's doesn't sell."

Liam went on to hail the three things he says has made Minder's so successful over the last three decades - his wife, staff members and customers.

"My wife Susie has put all the effort in, as has the staff of Minder's over the years," he added.

"But I have to say, the most important thing is the customers. If you have no customers, you have no Minder's. The joy that I get now out of Minder's, in this stage, the final chapter, is the grannies and grandas coming in and bringing their children here to get their school uniform or a pair of jeans.

"When they are here they say 'I got my first pair of jeans in here' or 'I got my first school blazer here'. That is what it's all about.

"Over the years, we have had a lot of fun. It has been a fabulous journey. And the people of Downpatrick, they are very loyal. I know we are living in a very difficult time, but don't tell anybody - but now and again you would have a sale on in Minder's. You'll always get a wee bargain."

Video by Belfast Live videographer Harry Bateman.

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