Watch: End of an era as Towey's shop to close today after 83 years in business
Mattie and Annie Towey opened their grocery shop in 1943 expanding it into a newsagents, petrol pump station and cafe.
It truly is the end of an era today, Saturday, for Towey's grocery and newsagents in Ballaghaderreen as it closes its doors for the final time after more than 80 years in business.
The late Mattie and Annie Towey opened their grocery shop on Main Street in 1943, gradually expanding it into a newsagents, petrol pump station and cafe.
For over eight decades, the much loved shop became an institution for people in the town and surrounding areas.
It was much more than a very successful business; it was always an open house with the customary warm welcome from the Towey family for everyone who came through its doors.
No matter the time, night or day, Mattie and family were always there to provide a helping hand when a knock came to the door.
Today, daughter Imelda and her eight siblings who grew up working in the shop, and whose family home is still part of the building, will bid an emotional goodbye to a place which holds countless fond memories for so many.
Large crowds are expected to gather again today as the curtains finally come down a wonderful legacy which the Towey family created in the town.
The shop closes for the last time at 3.p.m. this afternoon.
Imelda shared some very special memories on the eve of her retirement (video credit: Liam Reynolds):
We also spoke to Michael Carty who has been a loyal customer for 75 years:
