Curtain call for city music shop

Peterborough Music, in Cattlemarket Road near the city centre, will shut on February 27 after owner John Smith said the independent shop could not compete with online competition.

Mr Smith (61) said: “We took the shop over eight years ago but we have had to say enough is enough.

“There has been a big downturn over the past five years or so, and it has been getting worse and worse.

“The internet has had a big impact. We are an independent shop, and have a number of overheads to cover, which internet retailers do not have to cover.

“With the current rents and rates in Peterborough it is almost impossible for an independent retailer to set up in the city.

“The council have tried to help us, but there is nothing they can do.

“Christmas is normally our busy period, but sales were down 30 per cent compared to last year.

“We were the last independent guitar specialists in the city and our regular customers have been very disappointed we are closing.

“We are also very sad to be losing three excellent members of staff.

“I will be very sad to be closing the door for the final time, The store has a long history in the city - it was called Stamford Music until the mid-90s.”

The store is holding a closing down sale, which will last until the last day of trading.