The Bottleneck
This view of Goerge Street was taken before the "bottleneck" was re-developed. The store in the right in the foreground was demolished and a new Tesco was built there in the early 1960s. The "bottleneck" was not wide enough for 2 vehicles to pass but was always thronged with shoppers on a Saturday when Pontypool was the major shopping centre in the area and had a first class rugby team. Ray Prosser, Malcolm Price and Benny Jones were local heroes. In George Street was an Italian cafe called Savinis (Jakes) that sold wonderful italian ice-cream. Further up the street on the right was "Sharpies", - Cyril Sharps. A tiny shop that sold all the things any young lad (and those not so young) could wish for - Rugby kit, Fishing rods, footballs, Air pistols, darts - oh everything. I believe that Cyril was actually a cobbler as he also sold leather.
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RE: RE: The Bottleneck
Geez you certainly unlocked a few memories for me there, I can just about remember Savini's and remember Sharpies also, but only by name. Thanks Lynda Powell (nee Simons), now in Shellharbour, Australia.
Comment from Lynda Powell on Saturday, 8th May 2010.
RE: RE: RE: The Bottleneck
Lynda,
As a boy, I recall Savini's (left side looking up George St.) and Sharp's on the other side (further up the hill). Jake Savini was a great friend of one of my uncles.
The Savinis made the best icecream I ever tasted. Apparently, the recipe was secret and kept within the family.
Ed.
Comment from Edward Hall on Friday, 2nd July 2010.
RE: RE: The Bottleneck
Having been born in Pontypool, Edward Street, I well remember Jakes Ice Cream, and used to visit the factory in Crane Street, I believe. Does anyone know if any of the Savini family still live in the area?
Comment from David Blake on Wednesday, 27th October 2010.