Ipswich jewellers and restaurant Berridges, in Dial Lane, celebrates 30 years in business this week

The team behind family-run jewellers in Ipswich are eagerly looking to the future as they gear up to celebrate 30 years of trading this week

Christopher Hardman, co-owner of Berridges, in Dial Lane, thanked colleagues past and present for their support since doors opened on October 4, 1994.

Mr Hardman set up the business alongside David Berridge following the closure of Croydons Jewellers.

The pair wanted to offer a unique experience and decided the top floor of the building should become a restaurant.

Mr Hardman, who runs Berridges alongside wife Angela, said the team were proud to have been trading in Dial Lane for three decades.

He said: “We have seen many changes in spending habits over the years and are grateful for the help and support we have received from all our colleagues both past and present without whom we are sure we would not have achieved this success.

“Obviously, we are also grateful to our loyal customer base which now spans the generations and many of which we class as friends – whether popping in for coffee, a lunch, or a large diamond ring.

“We look forward to a bright future on the lovely Dial Lane.”

Mr Hardman has been working in the industry for more than four decades, beginning work at Croydons in 1979.

Most jewellery stocked at Berridges had a ‘strong family origin’, he said, with pieces from Richard Hans Becker, Thomas Sabo, Georg Jensen, and Chimento.

Berridge’s restaurant offers a variety of homemade breakfast, lunch and dinner options as well as afternoon tea.