Memories of Tuttles Department Store in Lowestoft sought

And now memories of the former Tuttles Department Store are being sought as part of an "exciting" new project.

The exterior of the former Tuttles store. (Image: Archant library)

With the popular landmark on the approach to Lowestoft town centre dating back to the late 1880s, the area is known locally as 'Tuttles Corner', after the Tuttles Bon Marche department store that had its base here from the late 19th century until its closure in 1981.

The former Tuttles building in 1950. (Image: John Holmes, My Lowestoft Scrapbook)

Now a new project aims to bring to life the memories and stories of Tuttles Department Store - as it launches from 11am to 1pm on September 28 at The Seagull Theatre in Pakefield, Lowestoft.

The former Tuttles building in Lowestoft in 2011. (Image: Archant)

“Tuttles Tales” is a new research and development project funded by the Arts Council through The Seagull Theatre CIC.

Tuttles Tales is being launched in Lowestoft. Picture: Susan Parr (Image: Susan Parr)

Project leaders Beccie Amer and Lucy Fennell are inviting anyone with memories of Tuttles to join them at an informal workshop to share experiences and stories, recall memories and talk about what made the store so well-loved.

Anyone with Tuttles products, photos, images and artefacts are also encouraged to bring them along to be catalogued.

Tuttles Tales is being launched in Lowestoft. Picture: Susan Parr (Image: Susan Parr)

Additional workshops will follow at East Point Pavilion on October 19 and another Lowestoft venue in November.

Project leader Lucy Fennell said: "I can’t wait to take a trip down memory lane with people from my beloved home town and uncover some of the tales at the heart of Tuttles”.

With your stories and “Tuttles Tales” being brought to life, it will culminate in a theatre production to be performed at The Seagull Theatre in March 2024.

Tuttles Tales is being launched in Lowestoft. Picture: Susan Parr (Image: Susan Parr)

Project leader Beccie Amer said: "This project is the ideal opportunity for anyone with memories of Tuttles to come together, share stories and bring this iconic building to life."

Seagull manager Karen Read added: "We are thrilled that Beccie and Lucy are going to be creating a new piece based on the history of the wonderful Tuttles store, of which we know so many people have lovely memories."

To register your place at a workshop email info@tuttlestales.co.uk

The Tuttles building in 2001 Picture: Newsquest (Image: Newsquest)