Portique’s owner, Neil Harkness, said: “The decision to close the business hasn’t been easy, but after such a wonderful career, I am ready to retire and spend more time with my family.”

Portique was established in 1971 by Neil’s great uncle, the late Mr R E Porter. Mr Harkness took the reins with his wife Elizabeth, in 1997, when the original shop was in Bournemouth’s Criterion Arcade. The store was relocated to Wimborne in 2003.

Neil and Elizabeth have run Portique with help from a dedicated team of staff and their three daughters, for over 25 years.

“I will miss our customers, who are such lovely people,” said Neil. “It’s been a privilege to be involved with so many special occasions in our customers’ lives and that really has been the most special part of my career.”

His extensive experience has included working for luxury retailer Mappin and Webb where he was based in their London stores, including their Harrods concession. From there Neil went on to establish himself as a respected independent buyer and seller of fine jewellery and silverware. He and Elizabeth eventually settled in the South West where they made the decision to purchase Portique due to its longstanding family connections.

Elizabeth added, “Portique has been a great place to be, with a fabulous customer base and hugely supportive staff who are an integral part of the Portique family. We will be very sad to say goodbye.”

The retirement sale at Portique will start at 10am on Saturday 25 June and continue until all stock is sold. All jewellery in the sale will be reduced by 50%, giving customers old and new an opportunity to bag a real bargain. Sale items will include diamond pieces, engagement rings, necklaces, coloured stone pieces, wedding rings, earrings, bracelets, pearl jewellery and more. All stock will be sold on a ‘first come, first served’ basis, with all items available to take away on the day.

Portique is located at 42 East Street, Wimborne, Dorset, BH21 1DX.