CUSTOMERS continued to flood into the Hexham branch of interiors business, Dickinsons, this week as the latest in a number of private sale events took place.

The store on Beaumont Street, which is earmarked for closure along with the high street branches in Alnwick and Carlisle, was closed for the invitation only event on Wednesday as efforts to clear up to £1.8m worth of stock continued.

Management at the family-run business with a 140-year history, announced the closure plans last month and said in future the company would focus on its commercial and contracting divisions, along with the launch of a new online store.

Declining footfall, increased staffing costs, rent and rates rises, as well as the impact of the exchange rate on imported raw materials, had all contributed to the decision, which has put up to 30 jobs across Northumberland and Cumbria at risk.

Managing director, John Spreadbury, told the Courant this week: “Consultations with staff are ongoing and they are all still working hard and rallying together at a very difficult time.

“This was not an easy decision, but it was one that needed to be made.

“We’re touched that so many of our loyal customers still want to come and buy from us and are grateful for all the good wishes and gifts which have been forthcoming.”

Mr Spreadbury added that it was impossible to to say whether the three stores would still be trading by Christmas and that the focus was currently on clearing as much stock as possible.