After more than 30 years of helping Orange put its best foot forward Fix 'n' Fit Footwear owner David Cardwell will hang up his hammer this week.
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Illness has forced Mr Cardwell into an early retirement, with the cobbler closing doors of his Orange Arcade shop for the last time on Thursday.
I'd just like to thank people for being with me this long
- David Cardwell
The cobbler will finish up at the Orange Arcade after 17-years, to make time for ongoing medical treatment.
He said he is part of a dwindling trade of footwear repairman and the decision to close has not been made lightly.
"I've got a lot of people who depend on me," he said. "It's just an unfortunate situation which I can't do much about, otherwise I'd still be going."
Mr Cardwell gained his qualification through an apprenticeship at the Bloomfield hospital footwear repairer in the early 80s.
Working under Keith Matheson, Mr Cardwell honed his craft and took over from his boss for two years prior to the hospital shops being shut down in '86.
After a few years in Queensland, Mr Cardwell moved back to Orange to start a business from his home, then set up in the arcade.
"I'd just like to thank people for being with me this long," he said.
Quest franchisee already a winner
The franchisee behind Orange's Quest apartments has been recognised for her achievements with a hotel industry award.
Amy van de Ven was awarded this year's rising star a the HM Awards for Hotel and Accommodation Excellence at the ICC Sydney's Grand Ballroom.
The 27-year-old has worked in the industry for 10-years and is set to open her first hotel in Orange in October.
Founder of Quest Paul Constantiou said Ms van de Ven was an advocate for women and small business.
"Amy's story shows that age is not a barrier to success," he said.
Pillow Talk launch rebrand with giveaways
Pillow Talk in Orange is launching its new look with a giveaways in store on Saturday.
A project team are onsite this week changing the layout of the Byng Street store in line with a national redesign.
Project Design Manager Ben McCowan said the store would be a more enjoyable place to shop.
The first 10 customers to check out the store on Saturday will receive a $50 gift voucher.
There will also be free barista-made coffee between 9-1pm, cupcakes, competitions and discounts.
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