THE owner of one of the most renowned fishmongers in South Wales has warned that Abergavenny could lose it's, "uniqueness," if independent shops are forced from the High Streetl. Richard Gafney, vice-president of the town's Chamber of Trade, took over the famous Vin Sullivan's Fishmongers in the town centre several years ago but has now relocated with the same staff to a new store with a new name - "Gafneys" in Market Street. Speaking at the grand opening of his new store Mr Gafney said, "Obviously this is a very proud day for me and it's nice to have my own name above the door but we have been forced from the high street because the rates are so high. "Abergavenny is a very good food town and known for it's independent shops, which is one of the reasons why people come to the town. "If we are not careful Abergavenny will lose it's identity with high rates forcing many other independent shops off the high street and become cloned like any other town losing its uniqueness." Monmouth MP David Davies who was at the officially opening of the store said, "All our towns are starting to become the same and it's nice to see a proper old fashioned business run by a prominent local businessman which uses local produce remain in the town. "I'm sure local people will want to return the favour by using Richard's premises to buy their fish. "It is worrying that high rates are forcing out businesses like this which are having to make way for the well known high street brands. "For places like Abergavenny to compete and prosper we have to encourage more specialised shops like Gafneys." •Franco Taruschio, David Davies MP and the Mayor of Abergavenny Councillor Ray Hill raise their glasses to toast owner of Gafneys - Richard Gafney at the official opening of his Market Street Store.
