Store loved by locals announces closure after 45 years in latest blow to high street

A high street institution which has been serving customers for almost half a century is closing forever. Southport Aquarium Supplies in Merseyside, which specialises in aquatic supplies first appeared in the town centre back in the early 1970s. But in post on Facebook last Friday (October 24) on a local group the business shared the sad news that it would soon be shuttering for good.

The message read: "Southport Aquarium is closing down. There's a massive sale, all stock must go. We're open Tuesday to Saturday 10 to 5pm. On its own Facebook page the business shared a picture of a notice in the shop window reading: "A fond farewell and a look of back of 45 years at Southport Aquarium. Closing down sale, everything must go."

Locals lamented its impending departure, with one writing: "Omg. I hope you can sell to someone who will recognise the history of this shop."

Another wrote: "It's like a tardist in that place. Fond memories of Paul and team."

A third wrote simply: "End of an era."

Up until last year, the shop had been run by Paul and Dawn Molineux for more five decades, as reported by Liverpool Echo.

Fiona Bailey, who had worked in the shop for many years took over the business following Paul's death in March last year at his request.

Fiona previously told Southport Visiter that Paul "put everything into this shop, he loved it".

"It was his mum and dad's fruit and veg shop before he took over and converted it," she added. He expanded the shop when the business next door moved on and always refused to walk away.

Fiona said the shop "was his life", and asked her if she would be prepared to take the reins, and she accepted.

The exact reason for the closure isn't clear.

It comes as high street businesses grapple with increased costs due to rising energy bills, rent, National Insurance contributions, and wages.