A Carlisle sporting goods shop that dates back to 1945 has announced it will be closing down at the beginning of 2024. 

The family business on Abbey Street, Chivers Sports Carlisle, first announced the 'heavy-hearted' decision that they would eventually be closing up shop in January this year. 

However, after 10 months of meeting 'potential buyers', the sports shop has announced that they will be retiring next year. 

A spokesperson said: "We can now confirm that we will now be closing the shop due to retirement.

"We have spent the last 10 months meeting potential buyers of our business, but time is pushing on and it's time to go.

"The shop will close in early 2024.

"We will miss all our fantastic customers and friends.

"We have been so fortunate to know and do business with such lovely people," they said. 

When the initial closure was announced, the business received an outpouring of love from Carlisle and communities further afield. 

Alan Pitcher was one resident who reacted to the news, sharing his memories of the shop and how his family has grown up with it.

"Chivers is one of our great institutions and it’s sad you’re closing down."

"I’ve only ever bought my running shoes from your shop. I bought all my son's tennis and rugby gear from you and only last year bought my grandson's football boots as well.

"Three generations of Pitchers," he said. 

The running shoe specialist is currently running a retirement sale ahead of its closure next year.