A Rochester hardware shop is to close after more than 100 years of trading – and its owners are blaming roadworks for the closure.

Ghislaine Smith, 52, whose great-grandfather opened A F Smith and Sons in 1906, blamed roadworks in Chatham for the store’s demise.

In particular, she said, the proposed demolition of the Sir John Hawkins would hit trade badly.

The store will be shutting up shop for the last time later this month.

Ms Smith said: “The closing is mainly down to the roadworks.

“The credit crunch hasn’t helped, but the roadworks have done much more damage.”

Many traders in Chatham and Rochester say they have seen a drop in trade since the two-way system in Chatham was put in place.

Some of the employees at the Rochester branch may be moved to her other store in Chatham, but there may be redundancies.

Ms Smith feels that neighbouring Medway Street, which currently gives direct access to Rochester High Street from Chatham, will become a no-through road once the flyover is pulled down.

The shop, which also sells horse riding equipment, was opened by Alexander Frederick Smith.

The Chatham High Street branch of the store, which opened in 1934, will remain open.