'Sense of optimism' in Tavistock as trade lifts

ELECTRICAL FIRM OPENING, AND LOUNGE AMONG OTHER POSITIVE DEVELOPMENTS

- By ALISON STEPHENSON

AN electrical firm has announced its return to Tavistock after an 18-year break as the town’s high street experiences a resurgence.

Hockridge Appliance Centre is moving into the Towls electrical and domestic appliance store in Brook Street which closed recently after 53 years of operation.

Launceston-based Hockridge is expected to open its doors in December in time for Tavistock’s famous Dickensian Evening.

Owner Karl Hockridge said he was delighted to bring the family firm back to Tavistock and would be taking on all the existing staff from Towls and increasing the workforce as a result of the business opening its second shop.

The firm spent 12 years in Tavistock but closed for commercial reasons back in the early 2000s. Mr Hockridge said when he became aware of Towls closing, he considered a good opportunity to come back.

Towls said on its Facebook page: “We are thrilled to announce that our electrical retail business is beginning an exciting new chapter under new ownership.