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A long-standing independent business in Oxfordshire, which became a fixture of Banbury's town centre for 143 years, has entered liquidation, marking the 'end of an era' for the local community. Blinkhorns, a family-run shop selling home audio-visual equipment, officially closed its doors in February. The business, which first opened in 1883 as a photography shop, evolved over the decades to offer televisions, sound systems, and other home entertainment technology.

For four generations, the Blinkhorn family managed the shop, making it one of the oldest continuously operating businesses in the town. According to the London Gazette, the UK's official public record, Rob Keyes and David Taylor of KRE Corporate Recovery were appointed as joint liquidators last week, on Friday, March 6.

Ian Gentles, who reportedly runs the Banburyshire Info Facebook, described it as a 'cornerstone of our town centre' and said the news was 'truly heartbreaking.'

The Facebook post shared by Banburyshire Info reads: "It is with a heavy heart and a profound sense of sorrow that we announce the closing of Blinkhorns on South Bar, Banbury. After more than 143 years of standing as a cornerstone of our town centre, the doors have finally closed for the last time.

"For nearly a century and a half, Blinkhorns was more than just a retail shop. It was a testament to a bygone era of care-a place built on the quiet strength of personal service, the wisdom of expert advice, and a bond of trust that spanned generations.

"While the world around us grew louder and more impersonal, Blinkhorns remained a sanctuary of character, offering a warmth that larger competitors could never hope to replicate.

"To see such a long and storied chapter of Banbury's history come to an end is truly heartbreaking. We walk past the storefront now and feel the sudden, heavy silence of an institution that has been part of our collective lives for as long as any of us can remember.

"We wish to extend our deepest, most sincere gratitude to the staff and owners for their incredible service and unwavering dedication to this community. You didn't just serve us; you were part of the family of this town.

"As you move forward into a new future, we wish you nothing but the very best. May you carry the pride of your remarkable legacy with you, knowing that your presence in Banbury will be missed more than words can properly express.

"Thank you for everything. Farewell, Blinkhorns."

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Local residents reacted to the news in the comments.

One person wrote: "So sad to see this. We have always used Blinkhorns for our TV's and cameras. We received such excellent service from them. Thank you and wishing you all the best going forward."

Another added: "Very sad to hear Blinkhorns is going, it is part of Banbury's history. My father and myself made many visits when I was younger."

Someone else said: "Very sad to hear of yet another longstanding family shop business to go, so who is now the oldest family run business in the town?"