A WELL-known and trusted hardware store on Bargates, which celebrates its 100th year, says it is constantly working to adapt to ever changing demands and expectations.

Having previously worked for a local housing association, Gary Adams and his partner Nicola Watson took over the ownership of Castles Home Hardware in October 1, 2018.

However even they would admit that they haven’t had the easiest four years running.

“It has been challenging, what with Covid and the road being dug up constantly,” said Gary.

“I love the shop. It has got that old school kind of feel to it like the old hardware stores in the 80s, and people love that. Because Castles is an institution for Christchurch, we felt that we ought to carry it on.

“Obviously, we offer the more traditional service. What people love about us is that they can come in and see the layout and remember back to when they were younger.

“It is a privilege to be part of something that has been one the high street for 100 years and to be part of this great institution.”

Bridport and Lyme Regis News: The original drawers in Castles Home Hardware from 1922 when the shop started as an Ironmongers - still full of ironmongery that can be purchased individually. Photo from Castles Home Hardware

However, whilst being one of the oldest running businesses in Christchurch, the couple are conscious about updating the store and bringing into the modern age.

Nicola said: “Even back then, there was the change in shopping habits. Before we even put in an offer, we looked at the traditional Castles customer and what they were like.

“We saw that there was a huge market for a sort of ‘help in the home’ property maintenance resource.

“So, when we bought the business off Roger Mason, we set up the Castle's maintenance team, and thank God we did as that helped us through the Covid period.”

On its newly founded website, the store now stocks over 5,000 products including more innovative items including combi drills and multimetres.

Castles Home Hardware also offer a click and collect service on their website, as well as deliveries across the area.

With the store due to celebrate its centenary year, the couple are looking to host a community event at the beginning of summer for the residents of Christchurch to mark their landmark anniversary and to thank the community for their continued support.

Bridport and Lyme Regis News: The trusted members of staff at Castles Home Hardware. Photo from Castles Home Hardware

“We take the history of the store very seriously,” added Nicola. “It guides us through everything we do and that feeling of responsibility means a lot to us.

“It is not just Gary and I. We also have Bryan who is our estimator, Margaret who runs the accounts for both sides of the business and our staff Steve, Max, Lawn and Andy. We all carry that responsibility in our hearts.

“The community were great to us through the lockdowns, and we really do appreciate their support.

"We just want them to keep doing what they are doing, supporting us and visiting our store and we will keep provide the same helpful advice and loving service that they have grown to expect from us.”