Comments on: The Last Days Of Shoe Repair

By: Kristofer Van Wagner

Kristofer Van Wagner — Wed, 30 Sep 2020 01:51:27 +0000

It is amazing that this post stressed how a sincere cobbler will get the job done perfectly. I find it amazing that shoe repair is a tasked or skill that improves over time and practice. I will keep this tip in mind for future references.

By: BPL

BPL — Sun, 06 Jan 2019 09:04:49 +0000

Twenty years ago, I came to this country to study handmade shoemaking in East London, the old Cordwainers College. England in particular was and is reknowned for its handmade men’s shoes, for very good reasons. Later on, I worked as a designer in and around Spitalfields for nearly ten years. And I would go to Gary for my repairs, for things I would never have time to do myself. I chose Gary, because I watched him work and could see his skilful hands were not insensitive (as is sometimes seen in shoe repair). So I asked him “where did you train?” And it began a long relationship, where I knew Gary and he got to know me quite well. I assume Dave has a similar background—these men trained up in Northampton where the old shoemakers’ industry once thrived. Learning all the nuances of working with German soling leather, inks, etc This is a true craft and in some hands elevated to an art. I still work as a designer. And at Cheaney, the only shoe concern still owned by the Church family and the only non-bespoke footwear still entirely made in Britain (not part made abroad and finished in the UK), they have a lively, beautiful little factory but struggle to find people to want to train and learn these skills. It would still be a nearly job for life—this level of footwear has a global reach. But few want to do this sort of work anymore. It’s heartbreaking.

By: Agent X

Agent X — Thu, 03 Jan 2019 21:00:49 +0000

I think that some commentators here are labouring under the mistake of thinking that landlords are interested in what “the public” wants. They’re not. They’re solely interested in maximising their income from rentals . Especially, when you’ve spent a lot of cash on a (re)development. A high end business will allow them to charge a much higher rental than a low end business.

I’m not defending them btw. I’d much rather have local businesses producing goods/providing services that most people actually need rather than overpriced posh tat!

Sadly that is 21st century Britain for you.

By: Jeanette

Jeanette — Tue, 01 Jan 2019 16:01:25 +0000

Good luck Dave! And all best for 2019.

By: Richard

Richard — Mon, 31 Dec 2018 22:47:04 +0000

Thanks a lot for this and all the posts.
A very happy new year to you and all the readers.

By: eimear greaney

eimear greaney — Mon, 31 Dec 2018 20:09:21 +0000

its even more important to have a cobbler with high end as ‘high end’ is made to last and will only last with the help of a good cobbler… lovely to hear how he can now open an off-license with all his well-wishers!!! I will get my shoes repaired until the cobbler says they are beyond it, and generally the cobbler will still rescue them at their worst. I am always amazed at the optimism of cobblers – nothing is too much of a challenge! Thank you as always for your posts and happy 2019

By: Lynne Perrella

Lynne Perrella — Mon, 31 Dec 2018 19:07:17 +0000

Frankly, “high end” is in the eye of the beholder. Harumph.

I can’t imagine anyone passing this interesting work environment without musing “Oh isn’t it GREAT that there are still services like this?” And tell their friends, and colleagues. And provide MORE work for Dave and his fellow specialists. Forming the pulse of the city.

Tell me: What is the lasting worth of these other high end pretentious shops that come and go, never leaving a dent, never mind a memory or moment of appreciation?

I am so glad to hear the words of appreciation here, adding to those by Dave’s long-time customers. I hope he realizes the value he provided and how much vitality he contributed to your city.

By: Saba

Saba — Mon, 31 Dec 2018 15:20:00 +0000

Enjoy your retirement, Dave. You deserve such a happy life after many years as a skilled craftsman serving the public.

By: Inge Mitchell

Inge Mitchell — Mon, 31 Dec 2018 15:03:09 +0000

Such happy memories from my time at the Baltic Exchange in St. Mary Axe – before The Gherkin – and getting my shoes repaired en route. Thanks for the Memory and Happy New Year. Inge Mitchell.

By: Jill Wilson

Jill Wilson — Mon, 31 Dec 2018 14:40:41 +0000

Grrrrr! I totally agree with all the comments so far and can’t believe that the greedy landlords can be so short-sighted. I know that if I lived or worked in the City (and had shoes which were good enough to mend!) I would much prefer having people like Dave in the area providing a much needed service rather than yet more naff “high end” shops.

Please keep on championing the real skilled workers while they are still with us – thank you!