Cooney’s fruit and veg has been keeping the people of Sunderland in fresh fruit and veg for 80 years, but this weekend is the end of an era.
Bennet Cooney, known as Benny, has the last remaining Cooney’s stall, which has been selling a kaleidoscope of produce outside of the former Wilkos site for the past 20 years.
But with the 68-year-old retiring, the stall, which is the city’s last outdoor fruit and veg stall, will also close. Here’s a look back through the years.
9. Centuries of tradition
The Cooney's history with the trade predates grandad Harry's stall with his father and grandfather also being listed as fruiterers in documents, making the current Benny a sixth generation fruiterer. | Sunderland Echo
10. A fond farewell
This Saturday, November 1, is your last chance to buy from Cooney’s. It will be trading from 9am until 4pm instead of the usual 4.30pm so Benny can enjoy a drink at the William Jameson with customers who want to take him for a pint. | Sunderland Echo