A couple who have run a Keswick jewellery shop for more than three decades are set to ring in the changes after putting the business up for sale.
Deborah Cowin and John Walker, who own The Necessary Angel in Tithebarn Street, are retiring after 33 years to pursue other passions.
They opened the enterprise specialising in handmade jewellery in February 1990 in Packhorse Court. It was one of the original shops to open following the yard’s redevelopment as a shopping court.
Deborah trained as a jeweller and silversmith but has always had a passion for all things handmade, so she started off with a mixed art and craft gallery with a picture framing business as well.
With an emphasis on local artists, she hosted many different exhibitions including work by Simon Bull and Venus Griffiths.
A gradual shift in direction saw Deborah going back to her jewellery making roots and expanding the ranges of designer jewellers in the shop.
“I’ve always insisted on selling work that is designed and made in the UK by individual jewellers,” she said. “As a country we are giving away our skills by pushing mass produced imports in the name of fashion.
“I think the demise of the high street has a lot to do with this trend. Nothing marks one brand out from another. At least with The Necessary Angel, I know it’s all superb quality jewellery.”
With this emphasis in mind Deborah set about training Tessa Brown to become a jeweller in her own right. She took on the creation of The Mountain Range which has gone from strength to strength, with Tessa attracting her own loyal client base.
The business has attracted multi generational clients which Deborah says is a wonderful position to be in.
“It’s fascinating to meet the children of clients who I’ve made wedding rings for, coming to me to have their own wedding and engagement rings made. It can sometimes make me feel a little old!”
Over the years, The Necessary Angel has raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for charities – mainly local such as Amy’s Care, Eden Valley Hospice, Jigsaw, Search & Rescue Dogs and Bloodbikes to name but a few. “It is an integral part of the business as shops should be part of the community they serve, so putting something back into local charities is important,” said Deborah.
She has a passion for motorbikes and this is something she hopes to pursue when she retires.
“I love loading up the bikes and setting off, even if it’s just for the weekend,” she said. “I’m hoping to spend more time touring in Europe and taking my time enjoying everything motorbike touring has to offer.
“We hope to find a buyer who shares our values and principles of skills, training, social conscience and great customer service. If we can, then there should be another 33 years of The Necessary Angel in Keswick!”
