The remaining two shops on a once-thriving road in Bristol are closing down, as their long-serving owners head for retirement.
Bristol's older generations will recall a time when Hotwell Road was a bustling hive of activity, lined with various different shops and services including a chemist, a greengrocers and a selection of pubs.
But following the imminent departure of both Hotwells Pine and Hotwells Fabrics, all that will remain will be a dental practice, a pub and the studio of an architecture firm.
In recent years the road has lost Persian restaurant Shiraz and Chinese takeaway Asia Channel.
'Time to bite the bullet'
Hotwells Pine has been based there for 35 years while the neighbouring Hotwells Fabrics has been there for six, although its owner has been active in Bristol's fabric trade for 50 years.
"I've been in the industry for half a century now and earlier this year decided it's time to bite the bullet and retire," said the man behind Hotwells Fabrics, aged 66, who did not want to be named.
"A lot of my customers are cross with me because they've been coming to me for decades and they don't know where to go after I close.
"They know that they can trust me to provide a good service. There are only a few places which offer high-end fabrics at reasonable prices.
"But running a business is hard work and I now want to put my feet up and enjoy myself. I plan to do a bit of travelling with my other half."
Area is 'not what it used to be'
Hotwells Pine, which has been trading since 1985 and stocks a selection of new and antique furniture, is expected to close when its stock runs out while Hotwells Fabrics could shut in as little as three weeks.
New tenants will be sought for the two premises but the area is not what it used to be, according to Hotwells Fabrics' owner.
He added: "It is a lovely spot down here but being a trader was made difficult when parking restrictions and machines were introduced.
"It's one of the busiest roads in Bristol in terms of traffic but we don't get any footfall, not like there was in the 1960s along here.
"It was thriving once upon a time with every unit occupied but the area isn't quite what it used to be, let's just put it that way. It's a shame."
Bristol Live contacted Hotwells Pine for a comment but the owner is currently away.
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