Downham: Ex-officer brushes up new skills
Official opening of Framin' Art by Shirley Knott who's husband Michael Knott's ran the shop for many years www.lynnnews.co.uk/buyaphoto
A FORMER RAF officer has achieved an ambition by starting his own art supplies and picture-framing business, Framin’ Art, in the centre of Downham.
Simon Prior has taken over the High Street shop, which was given an official ribbon-cutting opening by Shirley Knott.
Mrs Knott’s late husband Michael ran the premises as M J Knott for 43 years.
Mr Prior said: “I’ve always wanted to own a small business in Downham and as my time with the RAF was coming to an end, I noticed this shop was for sale.”
“Michael had finally decided to retire and sell the shop and he put me on the right lines and it was sad he died so soon after making that decision.
“It seemed right for Shirley to open the new business which does follow on very similar lines, minus the photographic equipment.”
A wide range of artists’ materials are stocked along with a variety of craft supplies and kits, and Mr Prior continues to offer a bespoke picture framing service.
He said: “I’ve also done a bit of property renovation so there were two reasons for wanting the shop, partly for the building itself and also as a business.
“The local tradesmen all did an amazing job and several of them came to the opening.”
Other guests included family and friends, deputy town mayor Robin Pegg, some local artists, and a few nearby retailers.
Mr Prior’s links with the town go back 22 years when he married his marine biologist wife, Mandy, whose mother Elaine John, owns Laina Crafts and Wool shop, on the other side of the road.
Mr Prior, a former wing commander at RAF Waddington, was awarded an OBE for organising many charity and community events as well as running a squadron at the base.
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Thursday 24 May 2012
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