A town's oldest family-run shop is to finally close its doors in the next few days after more than a century of trading.

Ashford business C.G. Earl and Son is set to shut for good next weekend – 110 years after it was first founded.

The company, which sells shoes, belts, boots and work footwear, was created by Clarence George Earl in 1912.

It moved to Hythe Road in 1921 and remains there today, having passed down to Clarence's son Ron and his wife Joyce and then to Ron's son Peter and his wife Angie.

The pair had been originally due to shut the shop before Christmas, but stayed open through January to shift the remaining stock.

They say the reception they have had since their closure was originally announced has been "overwhelming".

Mrs Earl said: "We have had so many lovely comments, and even cards, gifts and letters – a lot of people have said that from their own perspective they don't want to see us go!

"We really can't praise our customers enough, they have given us so much support and so many kind words.

"It does make you feel like you have made an impression on people. Some people never find out if they made an impression until after they are gone so it really does mean a lot."

The pair are now looking forward to spending more time with their two children once they shut the doors for the final time on Saturday.

It will see the end of a dynasty that refused to let its traditions and values be bowed by the changes in the town, having survived the rise of the Ashford Designer Outlet and online shopping.

"The industry has changed a lot, it used to be that suppliers would come to you but now you have to go to them," said Mr Earl, 73, who lives in Brabourne.

"And with a shop that's family run, you can't just say 'oh, we'll pop up on Friday' because that would mean closing the whole shop."

Mrs Earl added: "The way people shop has also changed, even to the point where you can get protective footwear at hardware stores now.

"I remember years ago we would always know everyone who came to shop; we would always know that the people at the market would come over after the market day."

The Earls will only be opening the shop on Friday and Saturday next week.