Tributes flood in for Hadleigh businessman Keith Young, long-time owner of Partridges

Tributes have poured in for a stalwart Suffolk business owner, who has been credited for providing employment opportunities for a generation of Hadleigh residents.

M W Partridge & Co Ltd – commonly known as Partridges – announced last week the death of its long-time figurehead Keith Young.

He died peacefully, surrounded by his family, on Tuesday, July 26, at the age of 87.

Mr Young, who was also a director of Cosford Properties, had been a familiar face in the town for decades, having taken over Partridges from previous owners Frank Goymour, Leslie Pearson and Frederick Thorpe back in 1984.

Under his stewardship, the store – an institution of the Hadleigh High Street for almost two centuries – continued to thrive for years, specialising in hardware, before he retired and placed the business up for sale in 2019.

A statement from Partridges said: “He was a quiet unassuming gentleman, respected by his peers and employees alike.

“He will be sorely missed. Our sincere condolences to Mr Young’s family at this sad time.”

Partridges is set to shut its doors for the final time at the end of next month, just a year shy of its 200th anniversary, with closing down sales currently ongoing, before the site is redeveloped under new ownership.

On social media, several former Partridges employees have shared their condolences and fond memories of working at the business under Mr Young.

Emily Gilbert wrote: “A wonderful man who I am proud to have worked for. Sending lots of love to his family at this very sad time.

“He will always be remembered and such an important part of Hadleigh history.”

Daniel Brown posted: “Such sad news. Gave me my first Saturday job and then took me into full time employment as he did with so many youngsters from Hadleigh. Always had a laugh and a smile for everyone.”

Caz Cockroft commented: “Sending my love to his family at this sad time.

“A wonderful gentleman who was always there for his staff through good and bad times.”