A FAMILY-RUN clothes shop is closing down after more than 100 years in business.

Shoppers were told Aldis Fashions, High Street, Manningtree, was shutting after a closing down sale poster was placed in the window.

Owner John Woods, who took over the store after his mother passed away, said the shop was closing because it was not “paying its way”.

It has been in the family for 60 years.

He said: “It’s very sad and it has been a difficult decision, but there are lots of factors which have caused it.

“We really are a community shop. A lot of people would come in here while they were waiting for the bus or sailors would come in from the quay.

“But unfortunately the fence went up along the quay and buses from Holbrook, instead of coming here, now go to Colchester.

“I don’t want anyone to think it’s down to the staff. Our manager Ann Ward has been here since my mother took over the shop and all the staff have been brilliant. I would like to thank them and our customers for sticking with us all this time.”

Aldis Fashions will close next month and is not expected to remain empty for long, as there is already interest in taking it over.

Mr Woods added: “I don’t think another clothes shop is on the cards. But there is no reason why it shouldn’t be taken over.”