Many have expressed their sadness after a beloved independent sports shop has closed recently on Barkham Road.

As previously reported, the business specialising in cycles, guns, and fishing, announced its imminent closure last year after nearly 70 years of trading.

After photos of the barren shop were shared on Facebook, many unhappy residents took to the comment section to share their memories of the much-loved independent.

One user said “It’s so sad to see this, especially the goodbye message. I’m sure my Dad used to buy fireworks from them.”

Another member posted “I've still got the air rifle bought there must be over 50yrs ago!”

A further person said “It’s sad to see it go. Had my first job in there working for Andrew & John.”

Others shared anecdotes of the items that they too had bought from the shop over the years.

One said “I got my first bike from there and got my crow scarers and fireworks every year. Years of friendly service. I called them to wish them well.”

Another commenter said “My Dad used to pay for our fireworks for Nov 5th every week/month from them. They had some great ones.

A further person expressed “Soon there will be no independent shops left.”