A THRIVING family photographic business at the heart of a town's high street for more than 40 years is closing down.

It is the latest blow for Northallerton after the closure of the main post office and several banks. But while the closure of the Keith Sanderson Cameras shop is the end of an era for the town, the family say the business will carry on.

They are being forced to close the shop following the death of Keith, 80, two years ago, who had set it up, originally in York, and a diagnosis for son Steve, 47, of multiple sclerosis. Mum Aneta, 87, who has been a stalwart part of the company will be helping Steve continue to work from home in York.

The business is renowned throughout the region, attracting customers from London and abroad, as photographers amateur and professional, took advantage of their knowledge and range of stock.

Steve said: "This has been an incredibly difficult period for my mother and me, but I am certain Dad would have been very proud of the way we have strived to honour his name by continuing the business.

"Unfortunately, my health issues have become very challenging to the point where I am unable to maintain the shop and all our services to the very highest standards our customers have come to expect. We are incredibly grateful for the wonderful support and encouragement we have received from customers, friends and supporters in Northallerton. We will never forget the warmth, kindness and loyalty to our long-established family business.

"So many of our customers have become firm friends over the years. We will miss them all so much and it is with very heavy hearts that we are saying goodbye."

The shop will be closing on Friday, January 28. Steve says he will be carrying on from home and is currently considering how that will work out. He added: "I have been working seven days a week for a long time, I haven't had a holiday for 16 years, it has been a labour of love because I love what I do, but the time has come to reconsider and work out how to do it differently and take into account my health. It is upsetting because we are a unique business and for the town things are changing. We wanted to thank everyone for everything they have done to support us in this beautiful town that will always have a special place in our hearts."

Steve can be contacted on 07811 388585 or via email at sandersoncameras@gmail.com