Thirty three years! When you say it like that it’s sounds like a very long time, which l suppose it is, but somehow it seems to have slipped by quickly!
Soldiers of Rye started selling toy Soldiers all those years ago and from the beginning they found their way to collectors and as gifts to people all over the world.
My little troops live all over Europe, the USA, Scandinavia, Canada, The Middle and Far East, Australia, New Zealand, every country in South America and many in Africa.
I have often thought that perhaps l am not a bad General really, as my soldiers have gone to all these places and yet never hurt anyone!
All through the years l have tried to enthuse visitors to my shop with the joys and fascinations of history through my models, particularly younger people.
But now it is time to go. The enthusiasm will never wane, but a new adventure beckons for my wife and l in Scotland.
Before l go however l want to thank all the wonderful clients who have bought my toy soldiers over the years and of course, very importantly, all the many friends whether in business or not, who have helped me ever since l came to Rye.
I shall never, ever forget any of you.
I wish each and every business in Rye and each and every citizen of this Old and Special Town every success and good thing in the future.
It’s been a lot if fun.
Thank you all.
Chris Viner
Awww Chris! We arrived on Saturday and, as usual, we came looking for you! All the years we have been coming (the boys are now 11 and 9!!), you have enthused brilliantly meaning we have come back year after year. We still use Napoleon and his drawers when necessary!
So happy to hear you are well and on to new adventures in Scotland. We hope all the family are well. We often wonder how you are. I don’t need to write it, you are already sorely missed. As you know the boys have been saving up for the annual (bi annual if we’re lucky!) visit.
We’ll go online this year, but of course it won’t be the same.
We miss you. We wish you the very best. Please visit if ever you are able.
With all our best wishes
Tara, Tim, Charles & Philip xxxx
Just turned up in Rye. Found your shop closed. GUTTED. Rye will never be the same without you, Chris. We have loved meeting you, and hearing of Napoleon s adventures. We wish you and your wife, a long and happy life in Scotland. Best wishes Lee & Sharon Bealing
Hi Chris
Sorry to see you go I have 18 figures in my collection did hope to get more . When are you closing?
Have you already gone sad if you have. But I wish you long life and good health.