Page 24 - Oundle Life Issue 7 May 2021

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HARPUR’S
Oundle’s added sparkle...
In 2002, Nigel Hill and his business partner Tina Wiggins opened Harpur’s of Oundle Jewellers. Nigel’s parents had previously run The Old Curiosity Shop and they knew the town well, so when they discovered that shop was becoming vacant... the rest is history!
What is the best thing about your job? Nigel: For me, seeing a lady’s face after we have rebuilt her mangled engagement ring to look better than when it was new. The look of delight and sometimes tears, makes the job worthwhile. Tina: No two days are the same, I have made some wonderful friends with people we work with. I love being able to design a piece of jewellery from scratch and see it made.
Favourite piece on sale today? Nigel: My favourite is the Raindance style ring, set with sapphires and diamonds in platinum, made by me in our Oundle workshop (pictured). Tina: My favourite is a yellow gold and diamond ring which is set with diamonds (pictured).
Anyone famous popped in? Rowan Atkinson, and years ago the goalkeeper for Tottenham, Percy Ames, was a very good customer and friend (he had massive hands!). John Bly from the Antiques Roadshow (another friend) and quite a few more from my pro music days.
What did you do during lockdown? Nigel:
I have done as much in the workshop as I can, otherwise lazing at home bored to death. Tina: Loads of DIY, landscaped the garden and I am into interior design so had lots to do.
You have £10 to give to charity, who do you choose? Nigel: Help for heroes. Tina: Rehoming charity for Staffies.
What’s the best thing about being in Oundle? Coming from a big town, it’s the individuality and the friendliness that strikes you the most. We both love it and consider it to be a privilege being here. Old style England!
Most challenging moment? Nigel: The most hair-raising moment was when an armed
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