A HEALTH food business which has kept residents of Richmond and beyond in good shape since 1981 is celebrating its milestone year.

The Wives Kitchen, hidden down a passageway off Finkle Street, Richmond, is run by Pat Fava, 72, and Irene Wagstaffe, 73 – who prove that good diet and a healthy lifestyle is key to keeping their energy and enthusiasm for running the business.

The shop, launched by Mrs Fava and her husband Tony in 1981, with Mrs Wagstaffe coming on board a year later, stocks a vast array of healthy alternatives, whole foods, supplements and homeopathic remedies.

Mrs Fava said despite considering retirement around ten years ago, the two women are still keen to keep the shop going for its loyal customers thanks to equally loyal and passionate staff.

She said: “The shop has been popular from the beginning really. We did hit hard times during the recession and had to let some staff go but we managed to come out the other side.

“We have customers from all over the country, some who come to us especially and we also deliver to Devon, Kent, and in the Dales.”

Mrs Wagstaffe added: “One of the best things is when someone comes in with a long list of things, hoping to get one or two, and find we can get them everything they were looking for.”

Mrs Fava said: “We have wonderful staff, especially Rosemary Hair who has been with us for ten years and helped us become more flexible with our time here.”

The Wives Kitchen is at 11 Finkle Street, and on 01748-822210.