A MUCH-LOVED hardware store in Malvern is to close next month after 60 years because of pressure from national chains.

Dobsons of Barnards Green is well-known locally as a place where you don't have to buy in bulk and it has a dedicated customer base.

But the success of big names such as Focus mean the familiar building on the corner of Barnards Green Road has been sold.

Owner Liz Pearce, who took over the running of the shop from her parents in 1975, is retiring and was sad that no-one would buy the property as a going concern.

She said: "My father started the brand Dobsons in Worcester in 1949 and built it up to four stores. However, in the 1970s trading changed with the advent of the huge DIY centres and many of the family stores were closed.

"However, Dobsons here in Malvern had always flourished and with a close team of colleagues, we enjoyed serving the community. But pressure from the retail park and the new Focus store means we can no longer keep it going.

"Trade has suffered immensely and I think it is important that people realise how much effect these national businesses have on independent firms.

"I would urge everyone to support their local family-owned store, not only to boost sales, but to make shopping a more interesting and worthwhile experience."

Mrs Pearce said Dobsons had been sold through an agency and while she would not reveal who had bought it, she did say that rumours it was Tesco were unfounded.

Worker Jan Box has been there for 23 years. She said: "All the customers and staff are very sad. One woman customer was almost in tears. I shall miss working here and I know people will miss visiting us."