After nearly a century of serving the community, Hartleys Ice Cream, a beloved Cumbrian institution, has ceased operations. The company, founded in 1931 by Grayson Hartley in Egremont, began as a humble venture with ice cream sold from a motorbike and sidecar. Over the decades, it grew into a local staple, operating dozens of ice cream vans and a popular café in St Bees.
Current owners Mark Richardson and his wife Shirley announced the closure on December 30, citing rising operational costs and unpredictable weather patterns over the past three years as key factors in their decision. Mark, whose father Les took over the business in 1983, expressed deep regret over the closure in a heartfelt statement posted on Facebook.
“It is with great sadness and very heavy hearts that we announce that Hartleys Ice Cream Ltd ceased trading on December 30,” the statement read. “This has been a very difficult decision, but with the nature of the business relying on good weather during the summer to sustain us through the winter, and the past three summers being unseasonably poor, combined with rising costs across the board—including energy and supplier expenses—we feel this is in the best interest of the company at this time.”
The couple extended their gratitude to the loyal customers who supported the business over the years. “We want to thank every single customer, no matter how big or small their support. It has meant the world to us,” they said. They also addressed customers with unused gift vouchers, urging them to get in touch for resolution.
The announcement prompted an outpouring of support from the community, with many expressing their sadness at the loss of a local landmark. “We appreciate the kind words and support we have received. It means more than you will ever know,” the Richardsons added.
Hartleys’ closure marks the end of an era for Cumbria, leaving behind a legacy of sweet memories and a reminder of the challenges faced by small businesses in an ever-changing economic and environmental landscape.
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