Oldest Sweet Shop in the World sold – as owner makes bid to be North Yorkshire police chief

One of Yorkshire’s best-known shops has been sold so the owner can pursue his political ambitions.

Keith Tordoff has revealed he decided to sell the Oldest Sweet Shop in the World in Pateley Bridge to pursue his ambition to be elected as the Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner (PFCC) of North Yorkshire.

The original election last May was cancelled due to the first coronavirus lockdown.

A year on, with the Tordoff family having sold the Oldest Sweet Shop, Keith is standing as an independent candidate in the election, now scheduled for 6 May.

He is a retired police officer, bank investigator, successful businessman and community champion, who was awarded the MBE in 2018 for services to business and the community.

Keith said: “There are huge socio-economic challenges facing the police and fire services in the fallout from Covid.

“People in North Yorkshire can be assured that, if elected, I will work tirelessly with the Chief Constable, Chief Fire Officer, councils and Government to provide a safe place for them to live, work or if they are visiting.”

The Oldest Sweet Shop in the World has been bought by 23-year-old entrepreneur Ben Howie.