Iconic jewellery store to close after nearly 150 years

Prestons of Bolton – known to many as the ‘Diamond Centre of the North’ – is set to close its doors after nearly 150 years of trading in the town.

The jewellery retailer, which has been based in Bolton town centre since it first opened in 1869, will shut down permanently following a final ‘everything must go’ sale on 3 September.

Sue Meade, who has been the store manager for the last 20 years, told The Bolton News that changing conditions on the high street has led to the decision to close.

She said: “This is not a decision we have taken lightly, the store has always competed with other high street retailers and the internet, but sadly it is no longer possible to continue trading from the Bolton store.

“This is bad news for Prestons of Bolton, however it is good news for lovers of diamonds as we launch into a final closing down sale.”

The store moved to its current location in 1913 and was the only jewellery store outside of London to trade on fours floors and feature a customer lift.

She added: “Over the years generations of families from near and far have become customers of Prestons of Bolton and many have become friends. We would like to thank all of our loyal customers for their support over the years.”