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Milda also runs Ecocentric Us, the refill shop in The Parade. It has proved so successful it has outgrown its tiny space and is moving next door into the larger premises recently vacated by Elliot Barbers. After 22 years cutting hair in Claygate, Howard Elliot has hung up his scissors and re􀀮red – and will be greatly missed by his many customers. With Ecocentric Us established in the former barber’s shop, its original premises are becoming a delicatessen selling local produce and items for refillable containers.

Also leaving The Parade are Roger and Christine Rushton, who have run the shoe repair and luggage shop in The Parade for half a century. Their shop, with its large selection of bags and cases and buzzing repair workshop at the rear, has become a landmark. These well-known village characters will also be greatly missed.