Richard Edwards to close the store on March 31 after failing to find a buyer.
Mr Edwards said of his decision: "I'm nearly 70 and I think I'd like to enjoy life while I'm still fit and well. I don't have any plans yet. I think I'll spend a couple of moths unwinding and go from there."

Unfortunately Mr Edwards was unable to find a buyer for the popular hardware business and will therefore have to close the shop on Wimborne high street at the end of this month. "It's like so many of the hardware shops," he said. "The younger generation aren't interested in DIY. It's sad but it's how it is these days."