A PAIR of legendary Hereford shopkeepers have pulled down the shutters for the last time.

Tupsley has said goodbye to Jack and Marie Hicks, the pair behind Marie’s General Stores on Folly Lane.

They opened the store in 1983 and have served thousands of students over a 26-year period.

But Marie’s infectious laughter will be lost on the next generation, as she locked up for the final time last Thursday.

The pair have taken early retirement and could move to Malaysia, where Marie lived before marrying in 1977.

“Lots of people have said they’ll be sad to see us go.

I’ve had lots of cards and will miss a lot of people,”

said Marie.

“I’ve spent my life in this shop, from 7am to 10pm every day, every year, but I’m surrounded by all sorts of people.

“For the first time in my life I’ll be at home, and I won’t know what to do. I’ll just have to clean while my husband is in the garden!”

The pair moved to Herefordshire shortly after their marriage and previously ran a newsagent on Whittern Way.

Students are their main customers, as the shop lies near the colleges and two secondary schools.

They’ve had a good relationship over the years, while customers often tell Marie how their children are getting on.

“I’ve been here for so long and I’ve served many generations.

It’s a nice place and kids are usually polite and friendly,” Marie said.