THE HIGH estimation in which a business couple is held in Enniscorthy was demonstrated at a recent retirement presentation by friends and retailing neighbours.
The ceremony was held to honour Jim and Myra Kinsella, who decided to close ‘The Jewellery Centre’ in the Market Square after over 30 years – but not by choice.
In July this year, Jim (76) was the victim of a brutal unprovoked attack which left him with a shattered jaw.
He is still recovering from his injuries, making it impossible for the couple to continue their business on a day-to-day basis and forcing them to shut up shop.
In the River Restaurant, a crowd of people came together to present them with a gift token and give them the send off they deserve after contributing to the town for so many years.
Fellow shop owner Eric Barron told The Echo that both Jim and Myra were delighted with the “lovely, pleasant evening” which involved many kind words spoken about the pair.
He added that there was such an effort made by people to come together for the couple as everyone was horrified at the vicious assault on mild-mannered Jim.
“The business owners are a close-knit community and we were just disgusted with what happened,” he said, “Everybody was outraged. Words fail me on the subject.”
He said that it will be sad to no longer see the jewellery shop in the Square, which he also remembers as The Candy Store, run by Jim’s mother in the 1960s.
Mr. Barron said that he and his retailing neighbours wish Jim and Myra the very best in the future.
“I hope that their retirement means that Jim can recover more peacefully,” he said.
He thanked all shopkeepers for taking part in the presentation, as well as John Morrissey and staff in the River Restaraunt for refreshments.