Ilkley’s famous hardware store, Mortens of Ilkley, has announced the business will close at the end of 2024.
Founded in 1937, David and Sharron Jowett took over the store on Cunliffe Road in June this year, after David joined the business as a Saturday boy at just 16.
Making the announcement of the Mortens Facebook page today (Thursday 19 December) David and Sharron said:
“It is with great sadness that we announce Mortens will be closing at the end of this year.
“When we took over the business, we did so knowing it would be tough with the retail climate as it is today. However, we were full of hope and confidence that along with our amazing staff we could make it work.
“Unfortunately, this has proved not to be the case. Too many circumstances outside of our control have collectively contributed to us being unable to continue.
“We realise that this will come as a huge shock to many and Ilkley as a town.
“We would like to thank everyone who has supported Mortens throughout the years!
“We are reducing all stock from today.”