Dannevirke: Blockbuster boss no longer in frame

Blockbuster manager for 15 years, Ann Shore, on the eve of her departure from the High St store, which will close its doors on August 30. Photo / Christine McKay

Dannevirke's Ann Shore began at Blockbuster Video 15 years ago, working her way from staff member to manager.

Now Blockbuster, owned by businessman Bill Taylor is to close after 31 years on our High St and today a new chapter in Ann's life begins as she starts work at Anon as receptionist and account broker.

With his franchise agreement up for renewal and Ann's decision to move on, Mr Taylor made the decision to close the store, which also houses a Lotto outlet.

Ann first worked for store owners Norman and Heather Aldridge of Auckland and told the Dannevirke News when Mr Taylor took over it was exciting and different.

"He had so many ideas and he's pretty full on, with his mind always ticking over with new ideas. But it's been fun. Bill (Taylor) is one of those energiser battery bunnies and I don't know what he'll do with his time without this place."

There have been a number of highlights for Ann, including the Big Wednesday $14 million Lotto win in April 2013.

"It's still Dannevirke's best kept secret," she said.

"It's a real thrill when something like that happens."

The store has been at the forefront of a number of community initiatives, including being the major sponsor of junior football in Dannevirke for three years. "We've always provided vouchers for school kids for free movies and cheap popcorn too, and we ran our cans movie festival promotion for our community food bank. People in Dannevirke were wonderful and put their hands in their pockets for the cause."

Along the way there has been plenty of fun, including the moonwalking competition held on the footpath outside the store in 2010. Run to raise money for Tararua Community Youth Services, even Mr Taylor took part to show off his best Michael Jackson impression.

"Bill and I also worked on the Pink Ribbon Appeal, decking out the store in pink and organising collection points," Ann said. "However, this year the appeal won't happen unless a new co-ordinator can be found."

Ann said she will miss chatting with regular customers and appreciates the staff who have worked in the store, including Felicity Clark who had worked there for seven years.

"I'm leaving the team to cope with the closing down sale and I'm sure they will," Ann said.

"This place has been my comfort zone for 15 years and to step out of the box and do something different will be scary. It's sad to see this place close. In fact, it's heartbreaking and I bawled my eyes out when I handed in my notice."

Blockbuster Video closes on August 30.