The world’s ‘oldest’ joke and magic shop is planning to shut its doors after 138 years of business.
Tam Shepherds Trick Shop has been a Glasgow institution since 1886, drawing in generations of aspiring magicians and jokesters.
Magician Roy Walton worked behind the counter for decades before his death in 2020, but volumes of his books are still sold.
He owned the shop from 1969 to 2019 and passed it onto his daughters, Julia and Sarah.
Now, the family-run business on Queen Street will be moving online due to the building being redeveloped.
A statement said: ‘We are sad to announce that Saturday November 9 was the last day of trading from our long-established bricks and mortar shop in Queen Street. The building that we are part of is to be redeveloped.
‘The new development includes retail space and we have the opportunity to re-open in what we hope will be a revitalised, small-business friendly, city centre.
‘However, the uncertainty over the redevelopment, together with the high costs of running a small independent shop in the city centre, are not sustainable for us.
‘Tam Shepherds will continue with our online shop, supplying customers with our range of magic tricks, jokes and costumes.
‘To all our customers and friends, thank you so much for your custom and support. We hope to welcome you back in future. And to Glasgow thanks for making Tam Shepherds the shop it has been.’
The shop was said to have inspired comedian Jerry Sadowitz to begin his magic career.
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