A FAMILY-RUN music shop has closed after more than 13 years.

Top Sounds, in Newgate Street, Bishop Auckland, closed its doors for the final time on Saturday, saying that changes in the music industry was making it difficult for smaller specialist shops to remain competitive.

Owner Jeremy Edkins said: "It is sad and it was a very difficult decision to make. I am not bitter. It is just business.

"Supermarkets now stock chart hits and can afford to knock down prices on the basis that people will spend their money on the weekly shopping. The Internet is also a factor. The market is changing and I needed to make a decision."

Top Sounds was established by Mr Edkins and his brother, David, who died three years ago, aged 44.

It sold chart music as well as more obscure selections. It also had a strong mail order business, with customers from as far away as Canada.

Since the decision to close was announced, Mr Edkins said he has had lots of e-mails and people calling in to wish him all the best.

He said: "I would like to thank everyone for their support. There are a lot of people who started off as customers in the shop who have become friends."