P&S Hobbies and Models, in Walmgate, is set to shut its doors this Saturday (January 18) after the building was purchased for redevelopment by property developers.
Owner Paul Lamming, 74, said that the notice to vacate came as a ‘shock’ to both him and his customers.
He said: “I’ve never seen so many grown men in tears. We’ve been here for more than 40 years - we’ve seen whole generations of men who were 25 to 30 at the time of our opening and are now in their 70s. We’ve watched them bring their children here and in turn, their grandchildren.
“It’s going to be a sad weekend, lots of people have been coming to pay homage. It’s the end of an era.”
The shop, which has been in the city since 1981, is owned by Paul and Sue Lamming and was one of six model shops in York when it first opened - now it is one of only two specialists in the city.
Whilst P&S focuses on the sale of Garden Railway models and accessories, it also stocks Second World War kits, radio models and equipment, and ships amongst a variety of other models.
Paul said: “When we told our bank manager that we wanted to open in York, he told us ‘do you know how many model shops are in York?’. I said, yeah, five, and I’m sure it’ll work.”
RECOMMENDED READING:
- York Minster matchstick model rehomed - after creator feared he may have to torch it
- 'I want players to make the rules' - new gaming lounge opens its doors in York
YOU’LL FIND MORE ON THIS STORY AND OTHERS AT www.yorkpressd.co.uk OR PICK UP YOUR COPY OF THE NEWSPAPER ITSELF AVAILABLE SIX DAYS A WEEK AT YOUR LOCAL NEWSAGENT
City of York Council £50m bid to protect heritage assets
Where to Watch Bonfire Night Fireworks Across York in 2025
The Brand New Heavies Announce York Barbican Show for March 2026
Extra Show Added for The Next Step at York Barbican After Sell-Out Success
Mayor Skaith's 10-year plan for York and North Yorkshire
The first headline act has been announced for the Live at York Museum Gardens concert series in 2026.
Yorkshire Carer Speaks Out on Being Underpaid
Adult stuck in baby swing in popular York park
