Junners, a Toymaster store based on South Street in Elgin, is closing down after 116 years of trading.

For generations of children, the independent retailer is one of the town’s best-loved shops, having been a must-visit destination in central Elgin.

The store will close its doors today temporarily before welcoming in customers tomorrow for a closing down sale. The store is predicted to shut down for good in mid to late January.

Since the announcement, customers young and old have flooded the shop’s Facebook page to share their own memories and experiences inside the shop.

Owner George Duncan said he and his wife came to the tough decision for both personal and business reasons. The couple have been in retail for 28 years, operating a newsagents in Keith, a toy shop in Buckie and the Elgin toy shop. However, increased competition, both online and from chain outlets, led to George’s realisation that the time had come for the next chapter.

“Difficult as it is to tell the staff and to close the shop, it is the right thing for us to do at our stage in life. I’ve loved the toy industry, it is just a great trade to be in,” George said.

He added: “Business is tough. You look at South Street and other bits of Elgin and there are empty shops, it is having a tough time. Now, there is Home Bargains, B&M, the supermarkets – everyone seems to be selling discount toys. We took a look at it two or three months ago and made the decision. We have a lot of toys to sell and we have 25% off so hopefully shoppers will come along and get some bargains for Christmas.”

The couple has thanked the store’s brilliant staff, many of whom have been with the company for years, and their loyal band of customers.