SHUTTERS DOWN Iconic music store loved by Pet Shop Boys shuts after 116 years and just before Christmas

AN iconic music store loved by Pet Shop Boys frontrunner Neil Tennant has shut down after 116 years in operation.

JG Windows, in Newcastle upon Tyne’s Central Arcade closed for the final time on Friday, November 29

Directors of the music store blamed an inability to compete with online retailers.

The store first opened in 1908 and was renowned for its wide selection of musical instruments, accessories, sheet music, and recorded music.

A notice on the shop front read: “We would like to thank everyone for their support, custom and friendship over the years.”

“After having served our loyal customers across the North East and beyond with all things musical since 1908, and being a cornerstone of the region’s musical heritage, our small business can no longer compete with large online retailers.

“It is with great sadness that we announce that JG Windows has closed permanently.”

The announcement of the closure has devastated fans, prompting many to express their feelings on social media.

Among the fans is Neil Tennant, the lead vocalist and co-founder of the Pet Shop Boys.

He said in a post on Facebook: “As a teenager I used to visit after school and ask to listen to David Bowie in one of their stereo listening booths and then browse through the records and sheet music and wish I could afford a posh guitar.”

“There’s no way I would buy, say, a new guitar online.

“I want to try at least two or three and pick the one that feels right to me, because instruments are really personal and subjective. Really gutted.”

A third shopper said: “My dad and grandad bought TVs, stereos at this store with the best customer service. Sad for all the staff. Thank you Windows.”

Shop general manager, Alex Cole, told BBC News he was deeply saddened by the closure.

He said: “Generations of musicians and music lovers, including my family and myself, bought their first instrument, listened to their first LP, or learned their first song within the iconic arcade store.

“The city will be a quieter place without it.”

JG Windows was put up for sale last year, but a buyer has still not been found.

However, liquidators Andrew Little and Gillian Sayburn of Begbies Traynor have said that there is still time for a buyer to come forward before the company’s liquidation date on December 12.