A VALE ironmongers which has traded on Main Street for almost 40 years closed its doors for the final time on Friday.

Wright Ironmongers was a well recognised part of the community and owner, George Murray, who is now planning his retirement, says he has many fond memories of the people of Alexandria.

George bought the shop with his wife Saddie Murray in 1978.

The independent retailer was on 78 Main Street for a number of years before moving to 92 Main Street where it has flourished for more than 28 years.

As well as ironmongery, the shop stocked a range of homeware essentials from hand tools, power tools, fireside products, garden tools, security products and key cutting services.

George told the Reporter: “When it started up I thought it would be a DIY store and then I started the iron mongering.

“The right offer has come along and it’s just the right time to retire but we would like to thank all the customers from throughout the years. We’ve had a lot of responses since announcing the closure with lovely gifts and cards.

”A closing down sale has been running for the past two weeks but there was no big send off on Friday when the doors were closed for the final time.

“It was emotional,” said George.

“We’ve had some great staff come through here over the years, including Sandra Hamilton who has been with us since she left school. It’s like a family."

Customers have been popping in to wish George and his staff well for the future.

One loyal customer Pat even wrote a letter to George which he said was “very meaningful”.

It read: “What on earth will we do now? By ‘we’ I mean the haunless men and the single ladies who rely on your sound advice and expertise. The tradesmen will miss you as well.

“They had the experience to know you always got a good deal – and a blether.

“You’re cheerfulness was greatly appreciated by everyone.

”The shop will be replaced by a Strathleven Financial Services office.

Damon Scott, chief executive, Dunbartonshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “It is always sad when long-established businesses close and I am sure that this traditional local provision will be missed.

"As a chamber we constantly promote Dunbartonshire as a place to do business and will continue our work in this area."