A BENCH to commemorate the work of a family business dating back more than a century has been unveiled on a busy Haddington Street.

Blooming Haddington bought the bench for John and Moira Main, who have retired from running JS Main and Sons, which has been based on the High Street since 1926 and was previously at nearby Market Street and St Anne’s Place.

Members of the public joined volunteers from Blooming Haddington and David Leckie, of Haddington Pipe Band, on Market Street, opposite the Town House Fish Bar, last Thursday morning to unveil the bench, which is in recognition of the Main family’s long-standing commitment in the town.

Joe Forte, chairman of Blooming Haddington, said: “It is good to see so many people here today to commemorate what Mains has done in the town.

“People all have their own stories about going to Plough Mains and I’m sure we could all tell you some of the unusual things we’ve asked you for.

“Even now, when people come into my shop, I’ll often send them down to Mains.”

Mr Main, who retired last month but has been working on a handover with new owner Jamie McDonald, was thrilled to see the bench.

He told the Courier: “It’s really nice and it’s the last thing we expected.

“Not just for Moira and I, but it’s a nice touch for the whole family and everyone who’s worked for us over the years.”

Mr Main, who worked in the shop for 45 years, was also “very pleased” to see that the shop, believed to be the oldest on the town’s High Street, will continue.

He and Moira thanked Blooming Haddington for funding the bench through the Common Good Fund.

The couple’s connection to the town was also recognised at the Haddington Show last month. A special presentation was made to John and Moira for contributing more than 25 years to the local agricultural community, either through employment in or promoting the allied trades within the county.

At the time, Moira said her husband was “quite overwhelmed” and added: “We have enjoyed the show very much. It is the first time we have been able to come for so many years [due to work commitments] and we are really amazed at how it has progressed over the years.”

Meanwhile, new boss Jamie McDonald added: “It’s nice to see that the Haddington community have something to remember all the work the Mains family have done in the town.

“We’ve got big boots to fill, but we’re not looking to change anything about the shop at all.

“It has been here for so many years and has built up such a good relationship with all the customers, and we want to continue that.”