CHESTER'S oldest jewellers Lowe and Sons on Bridge Street Row will pull down the shutters for the final time next month, it has been confirmed.

Due to the expiration of the lease, the decision was announced in April that the store would be closing.

And as everything must go, the store is offering heavy discounts on its remaining items before shutting its doors on Saturday, June 16 after 248 continuous years of trade.

Customers will be invited to ‘make a reasonable offer’ for the remaining items of jewellery in the final days.

Established in 1770, Lowe & Sons, based on Bridge Street Rows is Chester’s oldest independent jewellers, and is believed to be the second-oldest independent jewellers in the country.

Managing director Richard Hogben said: “It has been wonderful to see so many people coming in and sharing their memories. It really emphasises the place Lowe and Sons has held in the hearts and minds of the public over many, many years.

“Myself and the staff at Lowe & Sons have welcomed the chance to recall some pleasing memories of an incredibly special store.”

Such has been the reaction to the imminent closure that many visitors have taken the opportunity to snap pictures of themselves and the store’s staff, in and outside the iconic premises.

The staff have also received a steady stream of cards, messages and social media comments from well-wishers, including the following:

“Every time I walked past, I stopped to have a look at all of your wonderful things.”

“Goodbye to part of Chester’s history.”

“Bridge Street Row will not be the same again.”

“My family have been shopping here for generations, I am so sad that I cannot continue the tradition.”

“One of the saddest things to happen in Chester; 'Lowe's' was a by-word for excellence.”

“It's a part of Chester lost, very sad!”

“They always treated everyone as royalty.”

As the final days of the sale, and with it those of the store, draw near, there will be further discounts available; so all of the stock will have found a loving new home.