A LUDLOW clothes shop has puts its building for sale. 

Roger and Monika Curry took over Bodenhams in 2018, following the death of Mr Curry's mother, Muriel. 

The couple said it felt like a natural progression and the only way to keep the shop open. 

However, the 600-year-old Grade II listed building is in constant need of repair, something the couple are unable to finance. 

They have therefore decided to put the building on the market, however, the business will continue to operate as normal. 

"To secure the acquisition, we relied on a significant bank loan," they said.

"At the time, with historically low interest rates, the repayments were manageable compared to potential third-party ownership (and the extortionate commercial rent rates).

"However, as we find ourselves in 2024, the economic landscape has undergone significant changes.

"While our fondness for the building remains unchanged, we understand our responsibility as custodians to ensure its preservation for future generations.

"The increased interest burden on our current loan leaves us with little room to allocate funds for necessary maintenance and future investments.

"We are unwilling to witness the gradual deterioration of this historical landmark due to financial constraints, a fate that has befallen other local historical buildings.

"In light of this, we have made the difficult decision to list the building for sale.

"The impact on our business remains uncertain and will depend on the intentions of the potential purchaser.

"In the meantime, Bodenhams continues to operate as usual; it is very much a profitable business (although we do feel the pressure of the escalating costs in the current climate, like most businesses).

"We are already making appointments for stock orders for spring/summer 2025, underlining our commitment to providing our customers with the quality collections they have come to expect each season. It’s a running train, which doesn’t just stop with a press of a button.

"We have ongoing commitments to our suppliers and long-serving staff. When and if anything changes, we will make an appropriate announcement in due course."