A LONG family retailing tradition is to end with the closure of a furnishing store and the loss of 15 jobs.

Paul Phillips, who owns Brown and Phillips furnishings, one of Deal High Street’s biggest stores, is retiring and has sold the two-storey building to a development company.

About 15 people will lose their jobs as a result of the store closure.

Mr Phillips said: "I am sad, but was particularly sad when we broke the news to the staff.

"I spoke to everyone individually. Our staff are not numbers, they are part of the family and we all work together as a team.”

The closure, planned for March 24, marks the end of an association between the Brown and Phillips name and Deal town centre that has lasted for more than 65 years.

Mr Phillips’ father, the late Vivyan Phillips, was responsible for developing the stores in the town. Paul’s wife, Mrs Joy Phillips, manages the existing shop.

Mr Phillips added: "I am 68 and past retirement age. There is no-one to pass the business onto, so when we were approached by someone who wanted to purchase the shop I thought why not?

"I am sure someone will take the premises over and make it a nice store. It is a super site."

Alan Spiers, Deal and Walmer Chamber of Commerce chairman, was disappointed to hear about end of the furnishing centre.

He said: "I appreciate people do need to retire, but it is a shame the store could not be sold as a going concern."