A COBBLER'S shop which has been running for more than 30 years is set to close its doors for the final time.

Pocklington Cobblers, in George Street, Pocklington, has been repairing shoes for more than three decades.

Owner Jeff Shepherd has decided to close the shop next month due to a reduction in need for the service and an expected loss of passing trade, with the neighbouring Co-operative store likely to close later this year.

The 51-year-old, who is a Pocklington town councillor, said: "The shoe repair side of things is dying anyway. This point was going to come but it's happened sooner than I expected.

"I am a little bit sad, I have had 30 years here. I've got good customers but at the end of the day if I stay I'm going to go bust and I'm not prepared to do that."

He has thanked his customers for being "very supportive" over the years.

According to Mr Shepherd, the closure of the Boots pharmacy across the road from the cobbler's shop led to a reduction in passing trade, which cost him about £400 a week.

He added: "At some point the Co-op is going to shut down and the footfall coming up the street is going to be virtually nil."

There are plans to redevelop the site of the Co-operative store and create residential flats.

Mr Shepherd owns and runs the shop and does not employ any additional staff.

The Cobblers' last day of business will be August 18.