By Isle of Wight Observer
Antiques expert, John Wright, is coming out of retirement to take over Corner House Antiques, in Shanklin, at the age of 84.
Less than a year after retiring, the coins specialist and television regular decided retirement was not for him, and will begin running the business from Tuesday, August 4.
It is not the first time John has abandoned retirement. After moving to the Island at 65, following a 45-year career running hairdressing businesses in West Sussex, he lasted six months before opening a salon in Victoria Road, Shanklin.
That venture evolved into Victoria Antiques, which he ran for 18 years before moving to Regent Street. John became an expert in coins, banknotes, and gold and silver, appeared six times on television with the Antiques Road trip team, and built an online following through weekly live auctions.
John said: “Retirement just wasn’t for me, and I am incredibly excited to get back in the saddle doing what I love.
“Age and technology have never been a barrier for me. With my daughters, Jennie and Denise, working right alongside me, we are ready to build something truly special at Corner House Antiques.”
John will focus on valuations, while Jennie oversees trader management, social media, and promotions. Denise will manage daily operations.
The business will continue renting space to independent traders and is seeking new dealers. It will also reintroduce John’s gold and silver buying service, alongside purchases of coin collections and other collectable items.
The takeover will take place without interruption to trading.
Mal Butler