THE Mahogany Creek second hand store will stop trading at Christmas after 26 years.

It is the end of an era for owners Jan and Tony Smith who have become a huge part of the community.

Mr Smith said the closure was necessary due to the huge amount of ongoing maintenance and upkeep required for both the shop and their adjoining home.

“We are also both getting older - I am now 76 and my wife Jan is 80,” Mr Smith said.

“I have always been my own boss and we used to run another shop in Chidlow before this one so you could say it is in our blood.”

About eight months ago Mr Smith suffered a bad fall when he fell off the roof breaking his pelvis and ribs.

He said this was another reason he and his wife had finally decided to shut up shop.

Regular client Anna Boddy said she understood that all good things must come to an end, but it would be the end of an era for the people of Mahogany Creek and surrounding areas.

“The hills community will really miss the warm and welcoming atmosphere of the store,” she said.

The couple’s daughter Leila, who runs another vintage store next door called Ebony and Ivy, will also be closing up her store at the same time.