A FAMILY cycle shop in South Woodford is rolling out of town after nearly 20 years of business.

Richard Knowles, 55, owner of The Bike Shed in George Lane, is grateful to the public for making his business a success as he bows out to retire.

Mr Knowles' wife Sharon, his son and nephews have all worked in the South Woodford shop since Mr Knowles established it in 1989, moving over from Buckhurst Hill where he first established a cycle shop in 1984.

The bike shop suffered a break-in when burglars smashed the shop windows, cut through security bars and stole £12,000 worth of goods in April. Fortunately insurance covered their losses, and apart from another burglary eight years ago, selling bikes in South Woodford has been a smooth ride.

Mr Knowles said: "I just want to give a big thank you to all our customers because we have been very successful thanks to them. We have always tried to be here for our customers, and we want to tell them how gratefull we are for their valuable custom."

Mr Knowles will close The Bike Shed's doors for the last time on Saturday, July 28, and is selling bikes at reduced prices.

He will then pass the torch to Jim Sharman, who will provide a mobile repair service for former Bike Shed customers. Contact The Bike Shed on 8530 7436 or call Jim on 07917 850 886.