Craft custodian David puts Glencoe hub on the market
A family business in Glencoe village has been put on the market having served up a smorgasbord of delights to its customers for more than 50 years.
Crafts and Things has been housed in Tighphuirst (Gaelic for ‘house by the pier’) since opening on May 23, 1969 - then known as Antiques and Crafts.
Bought by Tony Cooper and his wife Ursula, who moved there from Crieff in 1968, the building was at one time a byre used for human and animal habitation.
When the Coopers bought the property it was virtually a ruin, with only parts of the west-facing wall standing and most of the roof missing.
In 1982 Tony and Ursula retired and sold the business to their youngest son and current owner David. Talking about his decision to sell up, David told us: ‘I have mixed emotions about it really.
‘There has been much hesitation and reluctance in my decision. I have been here for 40 years now though and although I am still reasonably fit and healthy I feel that I have to retire at some point.
‘I don’t really look on myself as the owner here, more the current custodian and the time now feels right to pass it on and allow someone else the chance to enjoy it as much as I have.’
David was joined in the business by wife Kshema in 1986 and together they designed the coffee shop. One of their aspirations was to create a meeting place where locals and visitors alike would feel welcome and enjoy the ambience. The coffee shop opened in 1990 and has been enjoyed by its target clientele ever since.
The coffee shop has been frequented by many high profile visitors over the years, including the late Hamish MacInnes who entertained his many famous mountaineering friends there on a regular basis.
‘It doesn’t really matter what background the people coming here are from,’ said David. ‘It just seems to be the perfect place to come and relax, and enjoy some light refreshments and a chat.’
It is not just the clientele who have found fame over the years. Rugby internationalist and Scotland Women’s captain Helen Nelson was once part of David’s hard-working team.
‘We have had some amazing staff over the years and I have enjoyed working with them. I have enjoyed witnessing the local youngsters come in here to work and grow in confidence,’ said David.
David also thanked long-term manager Mary MacIntyre who has kept everything ticking over nicely for the past 30 years.
Although David doesn’t really know what he will be doing when the business sells, he will not be stuck for anything to do. Among his many hobbies are sailing, photography, cycling and hosting live music sessions.