Lynes Store

Don't know if this is the right section to post this message but here goes anyway! Who remembers Lynes Army Surplus Store? It was tucked away on a small lane behind the Gas Showrooms on Corporation Street. Back in the day (40's to 1980's?) it was the 'go to' place to be kitted out for your Outward Bound, Duke of Edinburgh's Award, Scout camp or any outdoor activity. This was before the days of Regatta, Rohan etc., etc. My Uncle, Cyril ('Squib') Peutrell was the Manager so I got discount on purchases such as clothing, even ski goggles, for the great Caludon Castle Skiing trip to Martigny in Switzerland circa 1961/1962 (I think!) Also got my first pair of black lace up ankle length boots for when I joined the BTP Police Cadets. They had a nice toe cap and my Dad showed me how to 'bull' that toe cap until it gleamed. Got a rucksack there for hauling the school books about and later on, a ex-Army kit bag for when I was in the TA.

Hi Dayzeefun, There was this article in the Coventry Telegraph in 1999:

I do indeed remember Lynes stores, tucked away behind the Gas Showrooms, ever since I was a kid. Hiking boots - you went to Lynes. Dubbin for the boots - you went to Lynes. There was a mature bloke there who knew everything about the merchandise and would advise you on your purchase. When I told my dad (who incidentally was older than I was), he said that there was a bloke behind the counter by the surname of Peutrell. My dad said he'd been there since the year dot. I believe my dad knew him from schooldays - Centaur Road?