Shaws Coaches of Maxey has announced it is to close in May after 103 years of operation.
The operator announced “with great sadness and pride” that its doors would close on 2 May due to retirement.
“Whilst we are incredibly proud of what we have achieved since Grandad Shaw bought his first charabanc with a small inheritance from a wealthy aunt, we are none of us getting any younger and, after 40 years of being on call almost 24/7, it’s time for the management team to retire and spend more time with friends and family,” read a statement from Directors Richard Shaw, Chris Shaw and Jane Duffelen.
Shaws was founded in 1922 by Edwin Shaw, the grandfather of Richard, Chris and Jane.
Initially running out of a barn in Maxey, Cambridgeshire, the move to bigger premises came a couple of years later and the 49 High Street address has remained the base ever since.
Son Harry took over the running of the business until his death in 1981. Shaws’ first holiday tour followed in 1982.
Aside from private hire and school services, it went on to operate around 40 holidays and 400 day trips per year.
Shaws confirmed it will take bookings up until 30 April and that it is business as usual until 2 May. A final tour to Oliver on 14 May will go ahead as planned.
The Directors added: “Through the years, there have been some hugely enjoyable times and we have made memories to cherish, but our overriding and abiding memories will be of our wonderfully loyal clients and staff, many of whom we are now proud to call great friends. Your continued support, through thick and thin, has been our proudest asset.”
A departure on 21 April to Torquay will the operator’s last holiday. “As an aside, we’re particularly proud that the driver of that first tour is still with us and many of you will know what a huge contribution Les has made to the firm’s success over the years,” the statement continues.
“Our final thank you and huge appreciation is reserved for the dedicated people who have worked with us – past and present – without whom none of our achievements would have been possible. Behind the wheel, in the yard, under the bonnet, at the desk – you’ve all been amazing and so important to the success of Shaws.”
