Oldest bike shop in city closes, blaming landlord and industry for decision + more on the live blog

It’s not easy to find much positivity about the bike industry. In fact I remember during one of my first shifts ringing up a bike shop in York that blamed the internet and online retailers for its demise after 45 years.

> “We offer what the internet can’t. But it’s not enough”: Popular bike shop closing after 45 years, “can no longer compete” with online retailers

Sadly we start this morning with a similar case study. Jardine Cycles, after 40 years of trading as an independent business in Coventry, is to close later this spring. Writing on their website and Facebook, owner Terry Coombes said that “It is with great sadness that due to landlord, industry and on-going health issues I have decided to close the shop after 40 years of trading.

“I am extremely proud of what we as a family, mum Joyce, dad Alan, brother Paul, wife Fiona and myself have achieved during this time. I would like to thank all our customers, past and present for your support over the years. We wouldn’t have made it this long without you and hope we have put smiles on lots of faces.

“I personally wish to thank Conrad, my wingman, who has worked beside me from when I took over the business from my brother 11 years ago. He too, is looking forward to new adventures and I wish him every success for the future.”

Movingly, the closure announcement has created a swell of goodwill and fond memories being shared online, many with photos of their loved ones riding their new bikes.

The closure has evoked strong memories from social media users, including the father of NSN Cycling sprinter Jake Stewart.

“So sad to hear.” Paul Stewart wrote. “Bought [Jake’s] first bike from your brother Paul and it started him off on the journey of a lifetime, living the dream, representing GB at the world road champs, Flanders, Paris Roubaix and all 3 grand tours. Bikes are a bit fancier now but this was perfect for an energetic 2 year old and it’s local bike shops like yours that make these dreams possible. All the very best for whatever the future holds “

“So sorry to hear this. I’ve bought three bikes from Jardine over the years,” Paul Marzetti-Goldman wrote. “Many happy memories and always the best customer service ever.”

“Sad and absolutely gutted does not come close. “why am I getting emotional over a cycle shop closing?” I know why. We bought our kids their first bikes here. I remember we didn’t have a lot of money and there were cheaper bicycle shops but the service and, more importantly, the after service from yourself Paul and your father was second to none. We spent extra for that service and to put money into the hands of local people who knew the community.” Mark Roberts added.

A closing down sale has begun and will run until the shop closes at the end of May. The workshop shop will also remain open for repairs and services for much of that time. As much as the closure hurts, there is really something quite moving about the outpouring of affection.