Ducker & Son (Permanently Closed)

Probably right that this shop should close - level of customer care very poor and very unfriendly staff/ proprietors (in spite of the smiles and jolly demeanour on the Inside Out documentary covering its forthcoming closure).

I got a sense that unless you are an established customer or elderly, little attention is given to seek your custom (particularly if you are not of their standard demographic).

After more than 20 years calling into Duckers to buy shoes (5 pairs) I've given up on them. The rudeness is irritating and inexplicable. Why not call into the excellent factory shops in Northamptonshire (who make the shoes that Duckers describe as theirs) and get better service, better value and better range. Cheaney, Crockett & Jones, & Trickers in particular.

Excellent people,they know their job, this is one of the wonders of the world, to have hand made shoes is an essential in a busy life, they will take a little wearing in naturally, but then last for 20 years+ in the most wonderful comfort. the bad reveiws are written by people who do not know about Real Shoes and how Things Work; they are used to soft, factory made shoes, not a work of art and real beautiful leather. NB written by Jane Millais not Rosie, made an error!

Anyone visiting this shop will leave having experienced the best old fashioned customer service around. The people who work this shop are at the very top of their profession. Do not be put off by some of the balderdash that is written in some of the reviews. Mostly they have no appreciation of what to expect from a shop of this stature. Bear in mind also, that almost all of the people hell bent on complaining would not have told you the real story, just their side of things. Anyway, pop along and see for yourself.

We have been using Ducker's for over 30 years which gives us experience of both the old owners and of Bob and Isabelle. We wouldn't go anywhere else. The service is always excellent and friendly, and you get extremely practical advice as to what will suit your feet. On the very rare occasion when a pair of shoes purchased has not proved right, there has never been any hesitation in sorting out the problem. What customers need to remember is that Bob and Isabelle are experts and cannot be expected to compromise their standards simply to fit in to what is becoming a 'customer knows best' culture.