Lasting Tribute Planned for Much-Loved Shop Owner
Written by HFM News on 2nd September 2026
A bench is set be dedicated in Market Harborough town centre to the memory of a much-loved shop owner.
Jim Gilbert ran Frank Gilbert Housewares on the High Street for more than 50 years, becoming a familiar face to generations of shoppers in the town.
He died last month aged 78.
Harborough District Council is hoping to arrange a lasting tribute to Mr Gilbert by placing a plaque on an existing bench in the town centre.
The idea has been welcomed by Mr Gilbert’s family, who are supporting plans to remember his contribution to the town through his long-running family business.
Floral tributes were also left outside the shop following Mr Gilbert’s death
Frank Gilbert Housewares became a well-known business, with Mr Gilbert spending more than five decades serving customers.
News of his death prompted hundreds of people to leave tributes on social media, with many remembering him and his long association with the town.
Floral tributes were also left outside the store.
The council is now looking at arrangements for the tribute and how the plaque can be placed on a suitable bench in the town centre.
