'Heartbreaking' decision to close top Harrogate shop as pandemic takes its toll

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After taking the decision not to reopen over the last year at times when lockdown rules have eased, Cordings of Harrogate has now posted a sign on its window announcing: "We are very sorry to announce that Cordings Harrogate is closed for good...You can still shop for our beautiful products online."

Located amid the elegance of Westminster Arcade on Parliament Street in Harrogate, the traditional men's country clothing shop was an offshoot of Cordings of Piccadilly which has clothed gentlemen explorers, rock stars and royalty in understated British clothing from its original store in Piccadilly since 1839.

Cordings of Harrogate first opened its doors in Harrogate in November 2015 after a major refurbishment at the front of the arcade facing Parliament Street.

At one point reputedly co-owned by rock music legend Eric Clapton, iconic country clothing brand Cordings only had two stores in the UK - London and Harrogate.

Hillary Becque, marketing director of Cordings of Piccadilly, said: "We have had to make the unfortunate decision to close the store.

"As with all retailers, the pandemic has taken its toll, with the store in Harrogate having been shut for most of last year.

"It was a really heart-breaking decision to have to make, Georgie and the team in Harrogate were brilliant and the town itself was so welcoming to us as a brand.

"We have re consolidated the business back to Piccadilly, and are hoping to welcome any visiting Harrogate customers in our London store, or online at www.cordings.co.uk"

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