CUSTOMERS have told of their sadness after The Press revealed that a York city centre shop is up for sale, following the shopkeeper's decision to retire.

We reported online yesterday that Ernest Roy Electrical near Shambles Market, which dates back to 1957 and sells small electrical items from radios and telephones to clocks and speakers, is being sold.

Ken Devey said he and his wife Shirley took over the business 26 years ago, and they had run it together until Shirley fell ill, and he now felt it was time to retire. However, he said the shop was profitable and he hoped someone would take it over.

Dozens of customers have since commented on the website, Twitter and Facebook to praise the shop and wish Mr Devey well on his retirement.

One wrote: "Oh no. What a great loss. Brilliant much loved shop,2 while a second wrote: "So sorry to see this great little shop is closing. It has been a great asset to York city centre and Ken has always been helpful when we've needed advice about something electrical. Happy retirement."

A third commented: "York needs this shop! It sells useful things you can't eat or drink, which is beginning to become a rarity in York city centre. Is there anyone out there who would like to take it over?"

Another customer said: "Thanks for all the help over the years Ken! The Shambles/market area just won't be the same without the cluttered little Aladdin's Cave with the board of random light bulbs displayed outside."

Other comments praising Ken included: "This man is a legend. I went in recently and he was so helpful. I hope he has a long and happy retirement."

And another quipped: "Oh no ... now where does one go for a 1/4 " pluggy thing to fit onto a 4mm thingumajig with a dual coaxial wajamacallit .... brilliant shop ... sad loss ...happy retirement."