THE closure of a Renfrew shop has been described as the "end to an era" for the community.
Car Spares and Accessories, which is run by Gordon Taylor, will open its doors for the last time tomorrow (Saturday, April 13) as the owner gears up for retirement.
Gordon started the business in 1978 and it has been a vital shop for people ever since.
A motor mechanic by trade, the 69-year-old admits that he has always been a petrolhead and that working with cars was always his dream.
He said: "A lot has changed since I first started here, a hell of a lot.
"I have always wanted to work with cars and I started a car accessory shop that has now turned into a bit of everything for vehicles.
"The messages I have gotten from everyone have been touching and it is a little emotional to think about.
"There certainly will be a tear in my eye when I close the shop one last time."
Gordon, who is from Paisley, admits he is "ecstatic" but also apprehensive about retirement as he is set to go for a knee operation.
He continued: "When I first opened here I didn't think that I would have still been here a year later let alone 45 years.
"It has all been fantastic and there have been many good memories in that time, as well as the people I have come across.
"Nearly everyone I have ever met in this job has been top-class."
The announcement of the closure on social media gained a lot of attention from people who had met Gordon or interacted with him in the shop.
At the time of writing, his post announcing his last day had around 120 likes and reactions along with almost 90 comments.
One of them wrote: "An absolute gent. Will be missed."
Another added: "End of an era. I remember you from the CB Club in the early 80s. I was the barman in the Silver Thread."
A third said: "Good luck Gordon with all that lies ahead for you. Well deserved retirement."
A fourth also said: "Shame to see this little gold mine close, but appreciate you can’t work forever! Enjoy your retirement."
Whilst a fifth said: "What a shame - this was my go to place for car bits and advice. Such a lovely guy and he is always so helpful."
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