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Gemma Thomas brings Bridge Hardware in Sutton Bridge back into the family fold after 14 years




A well-loved hardware shop in the heart of a village is back in the hands of its founding family – after a 14-year hiatus.

Bridge Hardware in Sutton Bridge is going back to its family roots thanks to Gemma Thomas, who has taken over the business.

Gemma is the daughter of Bob and Sally Thomas, who purchased the shop, which was then known as Woodrow’s and was rebranded to RW Thomas in October 1984. It then later because Bridge Hardware.

Gemma with parents Bob and Sally behind the counter where they worked together
Gemma with parents Bob and Sally behind the counter where they worked together

During the 27 years they ran the shop, Bob and Sally built a legacy and created lasting relationships with the local community. The store quickly became a fixture in the village, affectionately known by locals as ‘Thomas’s’, a nickname that remains to this day.

In 2011, Bob and Sally retired and sold the business to Zeeshan Ali, who continued running it under the same name. Now, almost 40 years since her parents bought the business, Gemma is bringing Bridge Hardware back to its roots.

Gemma, 39, has many fond memories of the shop from her childhood, including helping her parents after school.

Gemma is back behind the counter where she worked with her parents during her schooldays
Gemma is back behind the counter where she worked with her parents during her schooldays

"As a schoolgirl, I used to help Dad in the shop before and after school and during the holidays," Gemma said. "It’s where I learned the value of hard work and the importance of community. I’m so excited to bring Bridge Hardware back into the family and continue the tradition that my parents built over so many years."

Bob, reflecting on the ‘good old days’ of running the store, said: "We had such great years running Bridge Hardware. It wasn’t just about selling tools and supplies - it was about the people and the community. We watched generations grow up, and many of our customers became friends. I’m proud to see Gemma take the reins and continue what we started."

Sally added: "What I’ll always treasure most are the familiar faces we saw every day. The local community was so supportive, and we were lucky to have such strong connections. It was always lovely to be in the shop, seeing so many friendly faces, and I know Gemma will feel that same warmth as she takes over."

Gemma with her dad Bob Thomas - she is bringing the business back to its family roots
Gemma with her dad Bob Thomas - she is bringing the business back to its family roots

Gemma is excited to bring fresh ideas to the business while honouring the legacy her parents created but insists it will remain a traditional hardware shop and will stay true to its roots.

"I’m incredibly proud to be taking on the shop and bringing it back into the family fold. My parents have set such a high standard, and I want to do them justice. I’m looking forward to reconnecting with the community and continuing to serve the people of Sutton Bridge and surrounding villages," Gemma said.

The return of Bridge Hardware to the Thomas family is an exciting moment for Sutton Bridge, where the shop has long been a hub for locals.

Gemma with her parents Bob and Sally outside the store that is now returning to the family's ownership
Gemma with her parents Bob and Sally outside the store that is now returning to the family's ownership
Gemma with her parents Bob and Sally outside the store that is now returning to the family's ownership
Gemma with her parents Bob and Sally outside the store that is now returning to the family's ownership
An aerial photo taken of the shop in the 1970s
An aerial photo taken of the shop in the 1970s

As Gemma embarks on this new chapter, she has said that she is committed to maintaining the values of service and community that her parents instilled in the business, ensuring that Bridge Hardware remains a vital part of village life for years to come.



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