(Image: Hallmark the Jewellers)
The owners of a long-running North East jewellers have announced they are retiring after 26 years serving customers in the town.
Owners Des and Jean, who run Hallmark the Jewellers on Redcar High Street, have started a closing-down sale as they prepare to step away from the business.
The couple shared the news in a message to customers on Wednesday (August 12), describing the decision as "incredibly difficult."
In a Facebook post, they said: "After 26 wonderful years of serving the people of Redcar and beyond, the time has come for me to look towards retirement.
"This has been an incredibly difficult decision to make.
"Over the years, Jean and I have had the privilege of helping so many people find the perfect piece of jewellery for engagements, weddings, birthdays, anniversaries and many other special moments.
"Along the way, many of our customers have become dear friends."
The couple said they had been privileged to help generations of customers choose jewellery for engagements, weddings, birthdays, anniversaries and other special occasions.
Des and Jean said the shop had formed a major part of their lives, but they now felt the time was right to enjoy retirement.
They added: "Hallmark the Jewellers has been such a huge part of our lives, but we aren’t getting any younger, and we feel the time is right to begin enjoying our retirement.
"We have now started our closing-down sale, with some wonderful bargains available throughout the shop.
"Please call in to see us, have a chat and find yourself something special."
The couple thanked their customers for their support and loyalty over the years.
They said: "Jean and I will truly miss each and every one of our customers.
"Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your friendship, loyalty and support over the past 26 years.
"It has meant more to us than words can say."
Read more
Sadness as popular County Durham play café announces closure
Football legend Peter Reid prepares for Great North Run for Sir Bobby cancer appeal
Weardale Railway creates special day out for County Durham families
Since announcing the news, many long-standing customers have taken to social media to wish them well on their next chapter.
One person said: "Wishing you both a well-deserved happy retirement, have had some gorgeous pieces of jewellery over the years, thanks for all the help and advice, you'll be missed on the high street, time to enjoy what comes next."
While another said: "Well-deserved retirement, thanks for your help and advice over the years my last purchase will be treasured."