IT is 'the end of the road' for a bike shop that is closing down after serving cyclists for more than 100 years.

Owner and manager Tony Ratcliffe has failed to find a 'suitable buyer' for CycleLife Ratcliffe's of Leigh on Bradshawgate after being diagnosed with prostate cancer earlier this year and deciding to retire.

A closing down sale is being held at the reputable family-run shop, which was founded by Tony's granddad William Ratcliffe in 1910 and will open for business for the final time on Saturday.

Tony, 67, said: “This town has always been good to us and I will really miss all our customers, but at my age it is time to take a step back.

"Sadly we could not find a suitable buyer for the firm.

"The store is 106 years old and I have been here for 45 years. It has been my life so it will be very strange not working at the shop any more.

“I made this decision after I was diagnosed with prostate cancer earlier this year. I am ok now, but it made me think more about retirement.

“I have two lovely daughters who have their own careers and no-one else to take over the firm, so this is the end of the road and we are selling off our stock.”

Bikes, accessories and sports equipment are available with up to a 50 per cent discount at the closing down sale.

Anyone who has ordered goods from the shop should pick them up before it closes on Saturday.

For more information about the shop visit visit ratcliffesofleigh.co.uk.