The owner of a family run business which has called Diss its home since 1971 has made the 'heart wrenching decision' to leave town after more than 45 years.

Kristian Wimhurst, the owner of Diss Antiques, in the Market Place has decided to leave the historic building the business has occupied for 47 years and relocate to Roydon.

The 44-year-old described the decision -which will also see the business cease trading in jewellery repairs and sales- as a difficult one: 'My father started the business 47 years ago, and it's like my second home so it's a bit heart wrenching but it's just the right thing to do.'

Putting the reason behind the decision down to a number of factors, including competition from the Internet Mr Wimhurst said: 'It was a very hard decision, but to be honest it has been on the cards for years because running a small business in a small town is tough for anyone. My dad passed away a couple of years ago and I decided at that point to throw everything at the business I renovated and gave it a year to see how it goes but half way through that year the Heritage Triangle works happened and we where down about £30,000.'

'I think the Heritage Triangle was a good thing for the town but it was chaos and people just stopped coming to the town, takings were down, it was really unfortunate timing.'

Adding that he would miss his customers, many of whom he has known for years the father of four said he hoped the move would enable him to spend more time with his family.

'I have come to a point when you realise you're only here once. I love doing what I do but when times are hard and when you're struggling to pay the bills it creates stress that isn't healthy.

'I would like to thank all of my customers for all their support over the years. I'll miss you all, please come and see me in Roydon.'

The business is due to close and relocate to Darrow Lane in Roydon at the end of July.