Holloway Road institution 308 Hobbies to shut forever
Richard Harris, owner of 308 Hobbies in Holloway Road. Picture: Dieter Perry - Credit: Archant
A Holloway Road institution will be shutting forever in the New Year.
308 Hobbies has been selling radio-controlled models in the shop since 1946.
It featured as the Gazette’s business of the week earlier this year. Born and bred Islingtonian Richard Harris, who took over the shop 17 years ago, told how he used to peer longingly through the window as a boy.
When the previous owners, the Nicholls family, were selling up, Richard had just entered retirement. But he loved the shop so much, he couldn’t resist taking over.
He is retiring for good this time, but confirmed the shop will shut on February 1: “I can’t find anyone remotely interested in taking it on. Everything’s gone internet crazy.
You may also want to watch:
“It’s very sad, heart-breaking in fact, but I’ve come to terms with it. I fought hard to keep it going 17 years ago, and it worked for a while, but the internet has changed the agenda.”
Richard, 68, of Highbury, plans to move to the West Country for his second retirement – saying it’s a more suitable environment to pursue his model hobby.
Most Read
- 1 Changes made to St Peter's LTN after Packington Estate used as rat run
- 2 Islington shooting victim named
- 3 Robert Rinder awarded MBE for his work on Holocaust education
- 4 Man in hospital with potentially 'life-changing' injuries following stabbing
- 5 Missing: Highgate woman known to frequent Camden and Islington areas
- 6 Phone snatcher admits guilt after robberies in Islington, Hackney and Tower Hamlets
- 7 Big name restaurant hints at Islington opening
- 8 Rise in London Covid rates, but people aged 25-30 can book vaccine
- 9 Murder investigation launched after teenager is shot in Islington
- 10 Woman, 48, arrested over fatal stabbing of Islington flower seller
