Largs Hardware Service closing down in Stanlane Place

Largs Hardware Service, which staved off closure two years ago, is to finally shut down but Peter Valerio will be carrying on his picture framing business in the town.

Peter, 72, told the News two years ago that internet sales and high street struggles had resulted in him deciding to close his DIY premises, but after an outpouring of support, he decided to keep his venture going.

But Peter says now he really means it as he has sold part of his premises for an exciting new venture which will be revealed later this year, so there will be no going back!

The Largs business owner previously made headlines after penning poetry in a novel effort to deter customers from moving online, and certainly gives customers plenty of chat whenever they enter his premises.

Now his picture framing business will be moving into the DIY side of the shop, as Peter puts everything hardware related up for sale in his Stanlane Place premises.

Peter, a former English teacher at Largs Academy, was also a skilful striker with Largs Thistle for many years in the '70s and '80s, and also enjoys tennis.

However, he told the News it was definitely 'Game, Set and Match' for the DIY side of his business, with all its stock featuring in the sale with discounts up to 75 per cent off.

Peter Valerio says his DIY premises is definitely shutting this time! (Image: Newsquest)

He said: "One half of the shop has been sold for a new venture which is coming in so over the next four weeks we have a final closing down sale of all the DIY stock.

"By the end of November, the plan is to have that side of the shop all cleared, so it is a last chance to catch a bargain.

"The picture framing business will then move into my DIY business to allow this top secret venture moving in next door which will also have an arty feel and is very upmarket, so it is something to look forward to. Watch this space!"

Largs Hardware and Gallery Eight is set for major changes with DIY section to close. (Image: Largs Hardware)

Peter has been running Largs Hardware Services and Gallery Eight since 1994, so it feels apt in many ways after 30 years of running the business, that it is time to concentrate on new endeavours.

The business will close on Mondays to allow for the transition over the coming weeks, and will be open Tuesday to Saturdays.

With his rhyming repartee, Peter said: "We will still do framing in our own workshop here, at prices that won't leave you shedding a tear.

"So get off your chair and stop surfing the net, shopping local is still your best bet."