Mr and Mrs Virk get emotional send off from Arboretum residents

Manraj Sing Virk and Prabhjot Virk, of Virk's Newsagents, on Northfield Street, in the Arboretum, were greeted to mass applause from residents who came to say thank you to the couple and wish them the best in their retirement.

Arboretum residents waited outside the shop to applaud Mr and Mrs Virk for their service to the community.

Mr and Mrs Virk said they are leaving sooner than they intended to focus on Mrs Virk's health. 

Mrs Virk said: "We are sad to go but it is time to retire. We are going to miss everyone very much.

"We made a lot of friends here and watched kids grow up and their kids have started coming to the shop.

"It will be nice to not get up at 6am in the morning though."

Newsquest (Image: Newsquest)

Mr Virk shared the same opinion as his wife and shared how much they loved being part of the community in the Arboretum.

Mr Virk: We loved every minute. We never intended to retire this quickly but with my wife's health issues, now seemed like the right time."

The send-off was organised by Ian Mackey, arboretum resident, who said how the gathering was a "true reflection" of how much the couple means to everyone.

He said: "I think it is a true reflection of the Arboretum where Mr and Mrs Virk have made their home.

"Everybody I know here has nothing but the nicest things to say about them. They are lovely people and are always so helpful."

Ian Mackey. (Image: Newsquest)

Worcester city councillors were also in attendance at the event and shared their appreciation for Mr and Mrs Virk.

Huge thanks to the Virks for all their work in #Worcester they will be missed https://t.co/aIZ7voY5Go

— Robin Walker (@WalkerWorcester) September 6, 2022

Cllr Jabba Riaz said: "It is an end of an era. Mr and Mrs Virk have been a part of this community for over 30 years. 

"They know the area, they know the history of the area and they know their customers inside and out.

"They are part of the family, part of the Arboretum and part of this city. This is just a small token of appreciation to say thank you for everything they have done.

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Cllr Karen Lewing also said: "They will be sorely missed. Everyone is so fond of them. 

"They have always been here and for certain the community will be very sad to see them go."