Local family business Hawkinsport has opened a new sports store in Bourne End.

The new site, just half a mile from their existing premises, opened for business on July 14.

Hawkinsport has been established for almost 50 years and for the last 29 years the shop has been a familiar landmark on The Parade in Bourne End.

Following a lengthy search for a suitable premises to accommodate their expanding business and a desire to stay in Bourne End, Hawkinsport are now moving to a larger site for their brand new concept sports store, warehouse and production facility.

One of the company’s Directors, Rob Hawkins said: “We are family business with a strong local customer base and we were keen to stay in the area – we are delighted to have found a suitable premises in Bourne End. The move has gone well with great support from staff, family and friends – it’s great to be up and running!”

Another company Director, Liz Hawkins said: “The move has been a long time coming, we have been searching for suitable new premises for over 2 years. We supply 23 local schools and more than 30 sports clubs and the larger premises will allow more effective stock management and better service to our customers.”

The new premises will enable Hawkinsport to stock and display a wider range of sportswear and equipment plus club kit and school wear. The new store will be the largest sports specialist store in the area and will feature a hockey hitting area and cricket practice net.

Hawkinsport supplies kit for the major sports of rugby, cricket, hockey, tennis, soccer, badminton and squash together with racket stringing and bat repairs and this will continue at the new premises.

Martin Sell, also a Company Director said: “Customers & staff are delighted with the new store. Feedback indicates the spacious new store gives a much improved customer experience with a greater range of goods on display.”

Hawkinsport has received terrific support from the people of Bourne End and the surrounding area over the last 29 years and they hope this will continue in their new store.