1997 - Earthlings landed a spacecraft on Mars and David Hall started at Abbey's. We're not saying these events are related but Dave has long had a fascination with Stanley Kubrick's 2001: A Space Odyssey.
"Open Abbey's front doors Hal."
"I'm sorry Dave. I can't do that."
Dave started at Abbey's on 7 October 1997 and was promoted to Deputy Manager on 29 May 2000 before taking the reins fully as Manager on 31 January 2005. That's 28 years of service, 20 of those as manager.
It's impossible to overstate the contribution Dave has made to the business over that time, often putting the business above his own interests and sacrificing his own time to ensure gaps were filled and jobs got done. The business is deeply indebted to Dave for these efforts.
As Dave's farewell card did the rounds (you know, one of those giant ones) it became clear that we needed to extend the card, such was the volume of mini-essays of thanks and esteem.
We often jest that Abbey's is like
Hotel California and Dave can foresee a time when he may wish to return to bookselling in a casual capacity and of course, he is always welcome back at Abbey's - time will tell.
Dave's last day on the shop floor is Sunday 6 April.
"Time to go. Open the front doors Hal."
"Sure Dave. I can do that."
With Dave's departure, Christian Hummelshoj will take over as Manager and Amelia Seddon will step up to Deputy - congratulations to them both. Christian has been Dave's deputy since 2005 so it's safe to say he knows the ropes!
