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Local butcher, Charles McHardy was surprised with a visit from some of the Committe members of Stonehaven Business Association on Saturday 30th June 2005.
Charles was retiring from the business which started life in the Auld Toon in 1907, then moved to Barclay Street in 1947.In 1976, they moved to the existing premises at the corner of Market Square and Barclay Street.
He joined the family firm in 1958 and has worked there ever since and won many Awards for the Shop.
McHardy’s were voted the Top Shop in Britain by their peers for the year 1997 - 1998.
In recognition of his tremendous contribution to business in Stonehaven, Donald Mitchell, Chairman of the Business Association presented Charles with a painting of Stonehaven Harbour.
Gregor Waite becomes the new owner of McHardy's on Monday 4th July 2005.
Gregor has a lot to live up to. However with 20 years experience in the shop there is no doubt he will carry on the high standards set by McHardy's and we wish him well for the future.
The following poem written by a customer sums up the respect and fondness for Charles McHardy.
Farewell
Farewell tae getting up at dawn and doon Beefy Castle Brae
Tae open up yer butcher’s shop ready for anither day
Farewell tae weet weather, skitey roads and snaw
Bonnie days, mochie days, it seems you braved them a’
Farewel tae sweeping oot the shop an haen it spick and span
Tae dusting and polishing, you were a shop proud man.
Farewell tae lots o’ elbow grease tae keep the counter clean
Wiping off the finger marks and putting on a sheen
Farewell tae mince an’ mealie puddings, brisket and steak pies
Tae beefburgers and bridies, sausages and stirfries.
Farewell tae beef olives, meat roll, roast pork and ham
Tae lots o’ chicken dishes, pork chops and leg o’ lamb
Farewell tae scones and pancakes, clootie dumpling and apple pie
Tae big meringues wi dairy cream that really caught the eye
Farewell tae yer great big crock pot and ‘hot soup o’ the day’
Tae quiches sausage rolls and ready made meals to take away.
Farewell tae putting yer hame toun on the map wi winning ways
Tae Q Guild ‘Top Shop” awards and happy Dorchester days
Farewell tae a’ the visitors that travelled from afar
Tae step inside and see this shop – you really were a star.
Farewell tae a’ your colleagues that hae served you through the years
Tae happy times the gither, the laughter and the tears
Farewell tae loyal customers that you got tae ken sae well
Tae a’ the blether and banter and funny stories you would tell
Charles is now looking forward to a lot more free time and spending more time with his family.
George McGillivray
30th June 2005
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