Much-loved shop closes after 40 years on the high street leaving shoppers gutted
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A CHERISHED York model shop has closed its doors for the final time after over 40 years of serving the community. P&S Hobbies and Models on Walmgate, run by husband-and-wife team Paul and Sue Lamming, has bid farewell, leaving a trail of heartbroken customers.
![[P&S Hobbies & Models shop front, closed.]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/bye-bye-much-loved-shop-965047539.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
The shop, which first opened in 1981, has been a haven for model-making enthusiasts. From helping customers repair their prized possessions to offering expert advice, Mr. Lamming, 74, said, “It’s a sad day really, it’s been a lifetime. "All my life, I’ve repaired things for people, and I’ve never charged them.".
![[Two people stand in a model shop, surrounded by model kits and paints.]](https://www.thesun.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/bye-bye-much-loved-shop-965047591.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
The closure comes as the building is set to be redeveloped, but changing times in the world of model-making have also played a role. “When we started, plastic kits were a really good seller, and as people have got older, the younger generations are doing things like war gaming instead,” Mr. Lamming explained.
Loyal customers flooded in to pay their respects to the store before its final day on Saturday, January 18. David, a customer of more than 30 years, said: “It’s very sad, but things are changing in modelling now. "When Paul started up, there were half a dozen model shops in York, and now we’re down to one.”.
Barbara, visiting from Malton with her truck-building husband, added: “I just think it’s a shame because they’ve been here 44 years now. "I just love them to bits. Even when we aren’t buying anything, we still visit them.”. Bernard, a customer for 13 years, praised the shop for its personal touch, lamenting, “Everything now is online, and what you get when you come in is that personal touch.”.
