TOWN councillors marked the end of an era when they paid tribute to popular traders, the Machins this week.
After the High Street ironmongers HR Machin closed its doors for the last time on Christmas Eve, many civic leaders thought it appropriate to award them for their community involvement.
The store, which sold hardware goods opened by Andrew Machin's grandfather, Herbert Reginald, back in 1906 and continue to thrive after his death in 1967.
Andrew, who attended a Victoria Square presentation on Friday, said: "It is a great honour to be recognised."
Town mayor Jan Bolton revealed that many people had been saddened by the closure, adding: "It was the only shop where you could buy just one nail if you wanted it!"
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