A POPULAR family-run hardware shop is shutting up shop for good â and locals are gutted to see it go.
Howell’s DIY, based in Wallasey, Wirral, has launched a massive closing down sale ahead of its closure at the end of April.

Shoppers can now bag 30% off marked prices and over 50% off older stock â but only while supplies last.
The much-loved store confirmed the news in a heartfelt post.
It said: “Unfortunately due to family circumstances we will be closing down at the end of April. From tomorrow we will be reducing prices. Please please come and grab some bargains.”;
Locals have rushed to share their disappointment at the closure, with dozens posting supportive messages.
One wrote: “Sad to see you go. Thanks for all the years.”;
Another added: “Sorry to hear this good luck for the future xx”;
A third commented: “Very sad to hear this.”;
While a fourth said: “So sorry to hear this, you are and have been an amazing local store. Wishing you all the best.”;
It’s not yet known whether the owners plan to reopen elsewhere, but for now, DIY fans can grab a bargain while the final stock lasts.
The news comes as other retailers, both independent and industry giants, continue to struggle.
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Rising living costs – which mean shoppers have less cash to burn – and an increase in online shopping has battered in recent years.
In some cases, landlords are either unwilling or unable to invest in keeping shops open, further speeding up the closures.
Last month, Essential Vintage told followers on social that it would after they had been “priced out” because of bigger players in the market such as .
Whilst, Red Menswear in Chatham in Medway, , , after selling men's clothing since 1999.
Shoezone, located on Devonshire Road, has confirmed .
bosses made the decision to axe nearly 100 branches as they battle challenges linked to tax changes.
Approximately a quarter of the retailer's 364 stores are .
This equates to about 91 stores, with a significant impact on New Look's 8,000-strong workforce.
It's understood the latest drive to accelerate closures is driven by the upcoming increase in National contributions for employers.
The move, announced by in October, is expected to hit retailers hard – and the has predicted these changes will create a £2.3billion bill for the sector.
Meanwhile, the WHSmith brand name looks