by Andy McCorkell EXCLUSIVE By Andy McCorkell A high road shop that traded in Irish friendship rings and bracelets has vanished leaving furious customers. Pat Jones, 77, who lives in Spode walk, West Hampstead, put two �100 bracelets in
by Andy McCorkell
EXCLUSIVE
By Andy McCorkell
A high road shop that traded in Irish friendship rings and bracelets has vanished leaving furious customers.
Pat Jones, 77, who lives in Spode walk, West Hampstead, put two �100 bracelets in for repairs at the Claddagh Shop in Kilburn High Road, on January 5.
But when she returned to collect her two sentimental keepsakes on January 28, she was left clutching her receipts and staring at the shutters of a closed business.
Although Ms Jones complained to the Citizen's Advice Bureau (CAB) and a police officer, she is no closer to finding out what has happened.
But she has since discovered that neighbouring shop workers have had to answer questions from many more customers who lost jewellery though the shop.
Ms Jones said: "I feel hurt. Those bracelets have a lot of sentimental value and I was going to leave them to my great grandchildren.
"Those were my rings and they have stolen them. I spoke to a policeman in the street but he said there's nothing they can do and said I should speak to the CAB. But I've called them as well and I've still had no joy. Everyone seems to be passing the buck.
"I've heard a lot of people have been asking questions about where their jewellery has gone and have been asking at the shops nearby."
The Times has attempted to track down the owners - a source revealed that the firm may yet be contactable through the landlords who rented out the shop to the business.
Ms Jones has been advised to report the matter to officers at West Hampstead Police station.
A police spokeswoman said: "She is urged to report the matter to the police so that it may be investigated and she should retain any relevant correspondence. A theft may have taken place.
"She can speak to someone at the police station and if there is an offence it will be recorded.
"I would urge anyone else who wants to pursue the matter to attend a police station."
A Camden planning and public protection department spokeswoman confirmed the council received a complaint about a firm called the 'Irish Gold Company' based at the same address in February, though that name is not listed at Companies House.
She said: "Anyone with concerns about anything bought, which includes services like repairs, should contact the advisory body Consumer Direct on 08454 040 506."
If you have lost jewellery though the firm call Andy McCorkell on 020 7433 6241 or email andrew.mccorkell@archant.co.uk
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