City store created memories

The demise by fire of one of Dundee’s best-recognised buildings – and a former favourite haunt of so many – has led Stanley Gordon to pause in reflection.

A constant admirer of the listed Art Deco structure in Barrack Street and its furniture store from the 1960s right through to the 2000s, the Newport resident says: “It was with great sadness that I read the reports and viewed the photographs of the blazeravaged shell which was all that remained of Robertson’s, the house furnishers.

“I have fond memories of whiling away the time, gazing at the wonderful window displays in Willison House before setting off to a concert or theatre outing.

“The brightly lit windows shone out like a beacon on dark winter nights. Indeed, the displays looked so cosy and inviting, I could almost imagine myself settling down and relaxing amidst the luxuriant carpets and furnishings.

“I remember purchasing my first recliner chair from Robertson’s, also a bed and a Puffin duvet. Around Christmas time, the store stocked beautiful wrapping paper – Italian, if I remember correctly.

“Some of the ladies on the staff used to shop in the Dundee Supply Company grocery store and I remember gentlemen from the carpet department would pop in of a morning for bacon rolls during their tea break. Happy days!”

Volunteers hard at work at Broughty Ferry Baptist Church packing Christmas gifts for vulnerable people in eastern Europe. See left.