Richmond'S only cobbler's is due to close at the beginning of April, leaving people to travel to Darlington or Northallerton for shoe repairs.

Gulliver's, in Trinity Church Square - part of the Mister Minit chain - closes on April 6.

The one member of staff, who did not wish to give his name, hoped to be offered another job in the area by the company but had yet to hear whether this would happen.

The Richmond branch opened about ten years ago and the company has others in the area, including Darlington, Northallerton and Thirsk.

The closure is believed to be one of a number across the country.

A company spokeswoman said: "We review each shop on its individual merits with a particular focus on when the lease is up for renewal and we make individual decisions based on the performance of each shop."

Dr Mike Nicholls, president of Richmond Business and Tourism Association, said the news was yet another blow for the town.

"There is a grave concern that Richmond is no longer able to supply all the needs for living and, when such a situation arises, local people will stop shopping here," he said.

"Whilst we might encourage tourists and visitors to come, I don't their spend will that lost from people's regular weekly spend in the town."