Leading councillors pay tribute to Laddies and say it will be missed in Holbeach

Leading councillors have paid tribute to an iconic institution which is closing its doors after a more than a century.

Laddies Ices will be serving up the last scoops of its famous ice-cream in Holbeach on Tuesday, January 31, when the Church Street shop will be closing for the final time.

Owner Richard Ladbrooke has decided to hang up his ice-cream scoops after decades of making the world famous treat for a well-earned retirement.

His niece Jane Stacey, who is the great, great granddaughter of William Ladbrooke who founded Laddies 100 years ago, has thanked the town for its support.

Jane, who is also retiring, said: “We would like to thank everyone for their support over the years and it has really meant a lot.

“We really appreciate all the good wishes.”

While Laddies is famous for its ice-cream but it is also a news agent and sweet shop.

Deputy leader of South Holland District Council Nick Worth, who remembers the Laddies ice-cream van visiting the villages.

He said: “It is devastating news. Laddies has always been a big part of Holbeach to me. It is a real loss to the town.

“It is a unique ice-cream which is probably why come people come from all over the country to come back to Holbeach.”

Chairman of Holbeach Parish Council Stephen Johnson wishes Richard a happy retirement but said the news was a shock.

Coun Johnson, who hopes that there will be something to commemorate the business, said: “Retirement is so important and so is quality family life so I completely understand.

“I wish Richard and his family all the best.

“It is a big loss for the town. It is a tradition for children to go to Laddies.”

Another person who is said to see the business go is district councillor Graham Rudkin, whose favourite flavour is vanilla with a flake.

He said: “It is a great shame for the town and a big name.

“Richard has earned his retirement.”

District councillor Tracey Carter has also paid tribute.

She said: “I wish Richard and his family all the best and hope they enjoy their retirement. It is sad blow for the town and I understand their reasons for it being the right time.”