'There were 25 family shops like us when we started. Now we're the end of the line'

When Colin and Alan Hesketh began working at their father’s independent sports shop in the 1970s, it was one of dozens across Greater Manchester.

Almost half a century on, it’s the last one standing. In a world dominated by online shopping and huge retailers, Bury Sports and Trophies is a throwback to a bygone era.

Inside you'll find its walls and counters lined with everything from snooker cues and cricket pads to snorkelling gear and slingshots. If you grew up in or around Bury the chances are that you’ve bought something from here down the years.

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But after decades as a fixture on the town's high street, the much-loved business is set to join the long list of traditional sports shops that have been consigned to history.

Colin and Alan plan to retire at the end of April, but the brothers insist they are going out on their own terms - and say trade is better than ever.

"It's the end of an area but it can't go on forever," said Alan.

"We could be here another ten years if we wanted but with me being 70, I thought it was time to pack up. I'd like to put my feet up."

The shop, in Bolton Street, has been in Alan and Colin's family since their father, Jack, purchased it in 1974. Prior to that, it was GH Lupton and Sons and previously Harry Orr's - both of which were also sports shops.

The Heskeths were no stranger to the sporting goods industry, having previously run successful shops in Gorton - which Jack purchased from former Bolton Wanderers and Manchester City footballer Alex Donaldson - as well as Hyde, Burnley and Bournemouth.

About a year after taking on the shop, the family decided to change its