A BELOVED music shop has closed after 41 years of serving the Bracknell community after the shops owner passed away.

Francis Jones opened Amen Corner Music in 1977 with just one guitar and since then, it became one of the largest stockists of musical instruments.

Wendy Halliday, Francis' daughter said: "Both me and my sister Annabelle are devastated at the loss of our Dad.

"We both just visited my Dad in October to celebrate his 70th birthday with our husbands and children so we are thankful that we got to spend this special time with him before he died." Amen Corner Music in Binfield was home to musical instruments, collectible items as well as speakers and sound systems.

Customers would come into the store to purchase their very first guitar or set of drumsticks and Francis would also share his expertise and knowledge on music.

Wendy added: "Our dad had a vast knowledge of everything musical.

"Amen Corner Music was the go-to place for musicians who needed anything from a plectrum to a drum kit, he also offered repairs and advice.

"There have been lots of tributes to our Dad on Facebook with people saying how they remembered when he first opened the shop."

Residents have been posting tributes to Francis and his 'legendary music shop' by sharing memories on how they remember buying their first pair of drum sticks and continued to visit the shop regularly.

Francis was in a band called The Rockin Blue Jeans before passing away in November 2018.

Due to this, the shop has had to close as his two children live far away and have no knowledge to continue on with the business.

Wendy added: "The closure of the business is very heart wrenching. We've had to sell our childhood home and cope with the loss of our dad.

"One customer called him a legend to so many musicians."