lease on life.

Heel Sew Quik owner Darren Booth yesterday confirmed the purchase of the landmark shoe repair shop, which closed its doors on September 30 after some 60 years in business. Owner Patrick Johansen had complained Government red tape and taxes were making it increasingly tough for small businesses to survive.

Mr. Booth believes diversification is integral to making a success of the new operation.

He said his wife Suzanne DeCouto went into partnership with Stephen Entwistle and the duo bought the store in October.

They have since invested some $170,000 in the business, carrying out extensive renovations and purchasing new equipment.

They re-opened Washington Lane Shoe Repairs in late November, keeping its name.

The partners have also installed a number of other services under the same roof as the shoe repair side of the business.

Mr. Booth noted it was the norm to find many different services at shoemakers throughout Europe.

"We will be offering services that are commonly found in shops in England and throughout Europe really,'' he said.

"We will be doing key cutting, fixing watch batteries and engraving. Most of the work will be able to be done on a while-you-wait basis, keys while-you-wait and we'll fix your shoes while-you-wait, but for the engraving you'll have to give us a bit more time.'' Trophies, medals, plaque awards and metal tags are among the engraveables that will be on hand for customers to purchase. Mr. Booth said they will be able to tackle almost every engraving requirement.

"We'll be doing everything from house names to name tags in metal -- and in plastic,'' he said. "Modernisation is a must for us to succeed. "We just threw away the equipment that was in there and bought new modern stuff.'' He added: "We believe there's room in the market for another shoe repair shop, but it has to be up-to-date and offer services.'' Mr. Booth doubted a small market like Bermuda could support anyone solely in the business of sole repairs. The new shop will also carry a complete line of shoe and leather polishes and cleaners as well as foot care products.