End of an era as Shaw's prepares to close

"Thank you for your custom," was the refrain used by staff to long-term customers who have thronged Shaw's Drapery store on Mullingar's Pearse Street today, as "Closing Down Sale" notices went up on the windows.

The closure will bring to an end over 100 years of history, and with its closure, Mullingar loses one of its landmark shops.

Shaw's, which sold fabrics, soft furnishings, handbags and clothing, is to close on Saturday week - but with 50 per cent off all items, the shop had already emptied well by this afternoon.

It was clear many of the customers were regulars, and saddened by the announcement of closure.