An Arnold book shop opened by a former teacher will close less than a year later. Tim Beeden - who said he took a "massive gamble" when opening the business, BUK, last September - announced news of the impending closure on the shop's official Facebook page.
Mr Beeden said: "I’m sorry to say that BUK is closing. Our last day of trading will be Saturday 29th July. It’s not a decision I’ve taken lightly nor is it one taken in haste.
"There are a number of reasons behind this decision, some personal, some less so. The bookshop has always made a nice little profit, despite an energy crisis, cost of living crisis and now mortgage crisis as well as cut-price books everywhere you look.
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"However, our personal circumstances have changed and, whichever way we cut it, a nice little profit isn’t anywhere near enough. Money isn’t the only factor involved in the decision to close. There are other, more personal reasons. Rest assured we’ve thought long and hard before coming to this decision."
The shop, in Calverton Road, had previously been a hairdressing and nail salon.
Mr Beeden also thanked everyone who visited the book shop, saying: "I’d like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who bought a book, shared a social media post, told a friend or did anything which in anyway helped benefit the bookshop. There’s just no way BUK would’ve existed for as long as it did without your brilliant support.
"I’ve been fortunate to meet some wonderful people and the support I’ve received for my little portacabin on a busy road has been nothing short of phenomenal. One of the things I’ll miss the most is the people. Those people who stop by the shop, grab a book, grab a quick chat and then head on their way. Or those others who manage to find time in their busy days to stop for longer and a good old natter.
"I’ve thoroughly enjoyed each and every one of those interactions. More than anything, I hope BUK has been the type of place where people can connect, build relationships and, simple terms, feel a part of something.
"There’s a lot of unpleasantness in this world but there’s also a lot of good. Be good & do good. Tim."
