THE imminent closure of a long-standing jewellers in Wrexham has been met with sadness by locals who have fond memories of the business.

Waltons Jewellers has been part of Wrexham for over 85 years, but its owners have announced that it will mark the end of an era via a closing-down sale worth £2 million starting from 10am on Saturday, January 29.

All jewellery stock at the Hope Street store will be reduced by 50% including diamond pieces, gold and gemstone jewellery.

The Wrexham store is the third and final Waltons store to cease trading, bringing to an end more than a century of trading in total.

The brand was founded by Bertram Walton in 1909, with the first location opening at Chester’s recognisable Cross. In 1917, a second branch was launched on Chester’s Eastgate, and the Wrexham store opened for business in 1935.

News of the store's closure has been met with bittersweet memories by Leader readers.

Karen Jones said: "A Big part of Wrexham. Such a shame to see it close. Good Luck Waltons the jewellers."

Sheila Richards added: "Had my engagement ring from there in 1954 and wedding ring 1956 so sad to see it is closing."

June Williams commented: "Aww my first job was there at 15 after leaving school."

Craig Butler said: "Bought my wife’s engagement ring and both our wedding rings from Waltons, the staff were amazing."

Allan Jones wrote: "A re-occurring story lately, soon there will just be pound shops, charity shops and coffee shops left. Quite sad, but the market has gone online so only ourselves to blame."

Jon Strange said: "It a shame we have to lose shops like this."

A statement from Waltons Managing Director, Richard Hogben, who has worked for the business since 1986, including a stint as manager of the Wrexham store, read: "On behalf of the Waltons’ team, I can say that it’s been an absolute privilege and a pleasure to be part of the lives of so many wonderful patrons over the years.

"Of course, the closure of this final Waltons branch has come as a shock to many of our loyal customers. We hope that our fabulous closing down sale will offer an opportunity for shoppers to head in and select one last Waltons piece. And of course, we look forward to saying our last goodbyes to customers old and new over the next few weeks, before we close the doors of our Wrexham store for the final time.”

Over £2 million worth of discounted jewellery will be available in the final weeks of trading at Waltons and they will be sold on a 'first come, first serve' basis.