Fans of a much-loved garden centre said they are gutted after it closed its doors after 100 years of trading.
Whitakers, on Liverpool Road in Prescot, was considered a landmark garden centre when it opened in 1923. Set in 22 acres of countryside, Whitakers sold home and garden products and served breakfast and lunch in its cafe.
The garden centre had its last day of trading on Sunday, March 26, with shoppers saying a final goodbye to the historic site.
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However, it's not all bad news as Whitakers announced details of its new site, just over a mile away on Manchester Road. The garden centre has been in development since 2022 and will open to the public on Thursday, April 6.
The new premises will offer shoppers around 1,500 square metres of retail space which will stock outdoor and indoor plants, garden furniture, accessories and equipment
In addition, there will be a new, larger cafe for customers, with both internal and external seating. Ian Lammond, Whitakers garden centre manager said: "It’s been a crazy few months developing the new Whitakers site, but after a lot of hard work and determination we are so pleased to be able announce the opening date to all our wonderful customers.
"We are so excited to welcome our customers through our doors, and hopefully everyone will love our new store even more than before.”
Responding to the news, some customers expressed their disappointment about the Liverpool Road closure, but said they were looking forward to visiting the new Whitakers.
Kirstie Carrol said: "Sad to see the old place go but best of luck in your new premises. I look forward to popping in when you open."
Barbara Spiers said: "Lovely memories in the old Whitakers hope new store is half as good." Suzanne McNally Boan said: "Gutted it’s moving, my escape across the road."
Sha Ron added: "Sorry to see the current building go. I love that premises." Pam Cookie said: "Looks lovely. Good luck with everything. It's a shame you've had to move, but we have to be positive."
Doreen Cato added: "That’s brilliant hasn’t taken to long, look forward to visiting the new site." And Lynda Halbert said: "Looking forward to calling in, good luck everyone."
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