Historical details of our early years are based on research by Steve Coombes, with contributions from Roger Brandon.
For a century, this very shop has been a place where the people of Chudleigh have come for trusted healthcare advice and medicines.
The story began in May 1925, when William Beach, a pharmacist from Dorset, opened a chemist at 27 Old Exeter Street. Over the years, the pharmacy passed through many dedicated owners, each serving the community in their own way, from William Ault in the 1930s, to Basil Proffitt in the mid-20th century, and later David Wheaton. In the 1990s, the pharmacy became part of the Hills group, which later merged into Lloyds Chemists.
Through every change, one thing has remained constant, a commitment to caring for the people of Chudleigh.
In September 2023, the pharmacy entered a new chapter. We became an independent pharmacy, owned and operated by a team of four pharmacists. Kenny and Jeff, who lead the day-to-day operations, both worked at Lloyds Pharmacy for many years before taking the leap into ownership.
Now, as we approach May 2025, we are proud to celebrate 100 years of continuous pharmacy service in this location. It is both an honour and a responsibility to carry forward this legacy, continuing to invest in our services, deepen our community roots, and provide the personal care our patients deserve.
Here’s to the next chapter, and to serving Chudleigh for many years to come