GENERATIONS of families have expressed their sadness over the closure of a "much-loved" shoe shop in Crowthorne.

Independently run business Newman's will be closing its doors on February 29 after 126 years of trading and the announcement rocked people's emotions.

Hundred's of villagers in Crowthorne and Bracknell spoke of their sadness about how the store will be sorely missed as generations of families shopped there.

READ AGAIN: Family-owned shoe shop set to close after 126 years

Bridget Beckett, a loyal customer, said: "Very sad. I have taken many children there for shoes as a parent, auntie and Foster carer.

"Most of them had additional needs. Great service even with some very uncooperative little customers."

Carol Stocker also added: "Will be greatly missed! Happy memories of buying my and my children’s shoes here!"

"Sad times as I know this must have been a hard decision for David’s daughters to make. It has been a big part of the community spirit for Crowthorne with so many amazing memories", said Renee Riley.

The independent family-run business originally opened in 1894 by William Newman as a saddlery, which sold, repaired and made leather goods.

Newman's owner Caroline Silvester described how the store had been struggling due to the high street changing and high business rates.

She said: "It is very sad that we are closing and it has not been an easy decision to make. We are closing by choice — albeit a very sad one.

ALSO READ: CORONAVIRUS: Berkshire's Horseman Coaches collect evacuees from China

"We would like to take this opportunity to give our heartfelt thanks to our loyal customers who have supported Newman's through the generations."

The independent family-run business originally opened in 1894 by William Newman as a saddlery, which sold, repaired and made leather goods.

Since then, the business has sold a range of footwear and provides fully trained shoe fitters to help customers find the right fit.

However, the business has crumbled due to the high street changing and not being supported enough by the government, says Ms Silvester.

"Business rates are extortionate, our overheads are increasing and we are now compelled to offer pensions and to contribute to them.

"Also, suppliers upping cost prices and cutting margins but selling cheaper online than we can buy direct from them means making a profit to reinvest in your staff and business seems almost impossible."