The shutters have come down for the final time on P&S Hobbies and Models, a beloved model shop that has graced York’s Walmgate for over four decades. Run by the husband-and-wife team of Paul and Sue Lamming, the shop served as a sanctuary for model-making enthusiasts, offering not only a wide array of supplies but also expert advice and even repair services, often free of charge. The closure marks the end of an era, leaving a void in the local community and a trail of heartbroken customers who cherished the personal touch and camaraderie that the Lammings cultivated. The redevelopment of the building coupled with evolving trends within the hobby itself contributed to the difficult decision. The Lammings’ dedication to their customers extended beyond mere transactions; it fostered a sense of community that is increasingly rare in today’s retail landscape.
The story of P&S Hobbies and Models is not an isolated incident. It reflects a wider trend of independent businesses struggling to survive amidst a confluence of challenges. The rise of online shopping, escalating business rates, and soaring inflation have created a perfect storm, forcing many brick-and-mortar stores to close their doors. The Lammings’ shop, like many others, fell victim to these pressures, highlighting the fragility of small businesses in the face of economic headwinds. While the Lammings will continue to operate their original shop in Scarborough, the loss of the York location represents a significant blow to the local community and underscores the changing dynamics of the retail landscape. The personal touch, expert advice, and sense of community that characterized P&S Hobbies and Models are becoming increasingly difficult to find in an era dominated by online giants.
Paul Lamming, 74, reminisced about a lifetime dedicated to his craft, recalling how he readily repaired items for people without charge, simply for the joy of it. This generosity of spirit and genuine passion for his work resonated deeply with his customers, many of whom have been patronizing the shop for decades. Their testimonials speak volumes about the unique bond that existed between the Lammings and their clientele. Customers recalled not only the shop’s comprehensive stock but also the invaluable advice and friendly conversations that were always on offer. This personal connection, often absent in online transactions, is precisely what made P&S Hobbies and Models such a cherished part of the community.
The closure of P&S Hobbies and Models serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges facing high streets across the country. The retail landscape is undergoing a dramatic transformation, with online shopping increasingly becoming the norm. This shift in consumer behavior, coupled with rising operational costs and economic uncertainties, has created a precarious environment for many traditional retailers. The Lammings’ story mirrors the struggles of countless other independent businesses forced to make difficult decisions in the face of these overwhelming pressures. The loss of these local institutions not only diminishes the vibrancy of our high streets but also erodes the sense of community that they fostered.
The outpouring of support and sadness from loyal customers upon hearing the news of the closure speaks to the impact P&S Hobbies and Models had on the community. David, a customer of over 30 years, lamented the changing times in modelling and the dwindling number of model shops in York. Barbara, visiting with her husband, expressed her fondness for the Lammings and the sadness of seeing their shop close after so many years. Bernard, another long-time customer, highlighted the irreplaceable personal touch offered by the shop, something lost in the impersonal world of online shopping. These testimonials paint a vivid picture of a cherished local business that will be deeply missed.
Beyond the immediate impact on the local community, the closure of P&S Hobbies and Models serves as a microcosm of the broader challenges facing the retail sector. The Centre for Retail Research reports a significant number of store closures in recent years, with the trend expected to continue. Large chains and small independent businesses alike are feeling the pressure. The shift to online shopping, exacerbated by the pandemic, has accelerated this trend, leaving many high streets struggling to adapt. The closure of P&S Hobbies and Models adds another name to the growing list of businesses that have fallen victim to these changing times, underscoring the urgent need for innovative solutions to revitalize our high streets and support local businesses. The story of the Lammings and their beloved model shop serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of these economic shifts.
