The Handyman on Clarence Street in Upper Gornal is expected to close in the new year when owner Karl Slater, 54, retires.

The business, which specializes in home improvement products and building materials, is believed to have operated in the village for around 60 years.

The news comes just weeks after it was announced that Dancers of Halesowen clothing store would close in December after 144 years in the town. Mike Dancer, 76, who had been in charge of the business for the last 44 years, decided to retire together with his sister Janet Duerden.

In September, Gulzari Ram and her husband Nachhatro announced the closure of Ettingshall Market after 35 years behind the counter.