New era begins for renowned jewellery shop

Julie Cryer and Nigel Cowens at the new NC Jewellers, Hebden Bidge

A renowned jewellers which closed its doors after six golden decades in Hebden Bridge has been given a new lease of life.

Gladys Duranczyk and her husband opened their jewellery shop, T&G Duranczyk, in the town in 1963. Now her nephew Nigel Cowens is keeping the family tradition alive in the town with his new venture.

Mr Cowens worked at the shop for 31 years, but when Mrs Duranczyk stepped down decided to open a jewellery business of his own.

NC Jewellers stands in the same spot on Hope Street and has been renovated to reflect the new chapter.

But despite its makeover, Mr Cowens says the shop still prides itself on offering traditional services.

Mr Cowens, 51, of Old Town, said: “I’m really pleased with to be able to keep it going and people are coming back in and saying how pleased they are. It’s something I had always wanted to do.

“I get on so well with the people who come in and they were all saying they were sorry to see it go.

“A lot of people have come in just to say how wonderful the window display looks.

“It is completely different inside and I’ve put my own stamp on it, but I’m trying to keep the old traditions like watch repairs and jewellery repairs.

“I’m really pleased to be a part of the independent scene in Hebden Bridge.”