A SEAMSTRESS has called it a day after 20 years.

Gail Leather, owner of Gail's Garment Alterations, has decided to retire at age 76.

She says Northwich Indoor Market has become quieter over the years and when she broke her wrist last month, she took it as a sign to pack up.

Gail said: “When I first opened my business and up until recently, the market was always busy and the atmosphere was brilliant, there was never a dull moment.

“In the last few years, Weaver Square has gradually started to empty meaning fewer people visit the Indoor Market, which is a shame.”

She added: “Over the Easter period, I had an accident and ended up with a broken wrist.

“Due to the recovery time, I decided that now is the right time to retire. Before the accident, I was wondering when the right time would be, but my lovely market colleagues and customers kept me going. “

Gail is originally from Winsford but moved to Northwich in 1969.

She opened Gail's Garment Alterations at Northwich Indoor Market in April 2004.

She has enjoyed many happy memories since then but the one that stands out above all probably isn’t one you would expect.

“There’s too many good memories to share, but the one that does stand out is when I sadly lost my husband, Terry, suddenly in 2012 and all of the traders came together to support me and helped me get through such a sad time,” Gail said.

“Without the traders, old and new, the market wouldn’t be what it is.”

She added: “I would like to thank my loyal customers for all their kindness and support over the years, especially for trusting me with their garments.

“I would especially like to thank my lovely colleagues for their friendships, great memories and all the laughter we had together.

“They really are an amazing group of people, and I would like to ask everybody whenever they can to please continue to support the Northwich Indoor Market and local businesses.”

On what the future holds for both Northwich Indoor Market and herself, Gail said: “I’m not too sure what the future looks like for the Indoor Market or Northwich.

“I just hope that people do continue to show their support and allow the businesses to continue to operate.

“I plan to spend my retirement keeping myself busy, hopefully lots of holidays and most importantly, making more memories with my family. Oh, and enjoy not working on a Saturday!”