THE longest established butcher in Banbury – who marked 25 years of service this month – has spoken about changes in shopping practices that have led to the decline of small businesses.
Chris Harper was just 21 when he opened C J Harper in Hillview Crescent off Warwick Road, in 1982 – making him the youngest butcher in the town.
There were several butchers in Banbury then, but now his shop is one of just three that remain, the ot
her two being in Church Lane and Grimsbury.
"When you think about it, it is quite sad," said Mr Harper, 46.
"There are very few individual shops now and Banbury has lost some of its character as a result.
"People prefer to go to supermarkets because of speed and convenience.
"But it is cheaper to buy a joint and have a a proper dinner than to buy a ready meal and it also helps to support small businesses.
"I love the personal service you get in a small shop and here we do everything the old-fashioned way.
"Customers can get advice, have a chat and see me cut the meat."
Mr Harper's wife Ann also helps out in the shop but she spends most of her time working on a farm in Adderbury.
The official 25th anniversary of the butchers was on August 3 and Mr Harper marked the occasion with a quiet drink.
"We may celebrate it properly later this month but we have not arranged anything yet," he said.
The shop, which is open from Tuesday to Saturday, 9am to 5pm, makes its own burgers and sausages.
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