Docwra's Rock Factory, Regent Road, Great Yarmouth
Photographs of Docwra's Rock Factory in 2007
By Oliver Cruickshank
Profile of Stephen Docwra: Owner of Docwra's Rock Factory
Stephen Docwra owns the company Candigrove Ltd, better known as Docwra's Rock Shop. The company was set up by his grandfather who started making sweets from his factory in Middlegate in 1896. He opened the shop in Regent Road in 1922 and it is still going strong today. Stephen says the technology they use to make rock has changed little in the last 70-80 years.
A typical day in the summer involves making lettered rock in front of the public, which is the main attraction that brings people into the shop. Aside from rock they make chocolates, confectionary novelties, humbugs, lollipops, all the sweets associated with a seaside rock shop. They also supply all the tourist resorts from Hunstanton to Clacton.
Stephen says the only negative aspect to the job is that his business is heavily dependent on tourism, which he hopes will continue to improve. He enjoys working with the public and wants to expand the chocolate and promotional rock sides of the business.
Portrait of Janet Docwra behind the rock counter
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Portrait of V. Cashman behind the rock-making counter
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Portrait of Andy Docwra behind the chocolate counter
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Portrait of T. Carpenter making chocolates
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Portrait of T. Carpenter making chocolates
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Close-up of Docwra's Easter display
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Close-up of sticks of Docwra's Rock
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Close-up of bags of Docwra's Rock on sale in the shop
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View of Docwra's Rock Shop
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