A TRADITIONAL toy shop which has been run by the same family for three generations is to close today, Monday.

Niddrie’s Toys and Cycles in Lewin Street has been a part of Middlewich for 93 years.

Fiona Niddrie and her brother Philip announced in October that they wanted to move on with their lives and appealed for a new owner.

But they have now decided to call it a day.

Fiona said: “It would have been nice if someone could have taken on the business. There was interest and negotiations took place but they didn’t come to fruition.”

The store, one of the oldest in the town, will shut its doors today, Monday.

But it will reopen on Saturday mornings throughout July while it is refurbished for rental purposes.

A number will also be left in the window for anyone who wants to buy any of the remaining stock.

Niddrie’s was established by Francis Niddrie in 1918, across the road at 37 Lewin Street.

The business was then run by Fiona and Philip’s father Robert Niddrie, who died in 2009.

“It will be a great loss to the community,” added Fiona.

“A number of customers have wished us well and said that Middlewich won’t be the same.

“When we had the coaches it was a hub of activity - it was vibrant - and when we finally put the lock on the door it will be emotional.”

Fiona told the Guardian that she thinks the failed negotiations to keep the toy shop alive is symptomatic of Middlewich’s changing town centre.

She said: “We’ve lost small independent traders. They’ve been replaced by takeaways and estate agents.

“We’ve lost that personal touch. If you want to buy anything you’ve got to go out of town.”

Fiona also wanted to thank customers for their loyalty and words of encouragement To leave a message of support for Fiona and Philip or to have your say, comment below