August marked the end of an era for Aberystwyth businessman Basil Coates, who has shut his shop in Corporation Street for the final time.

Basil has closed the doors of GB Fishing Angling Centre to start his well-earned retirement.

He said his decision to close had also been influenced by building work at the Belle Vue Hotel.

When the ‘Cambrian News’ approached him for comment he said he was shy but “grateful for our attention to the closing of another shop in town” as well as his retirement.

“I have spent since 1998 in the tackle trade in town apart from three years running Burger King restaurants in Aber and Wrexham,” he explained.

“I started GB Fishing in 2012, loved every minute of it, met amazing folk and made numerous friends.

“At 75 it is the right time to retire as well as the future of the Belle Vue hotel hanging over my decision.

“Vince Morgan's has been a very good landlord and has been very generous in our dealings.

“I will be staying on in Aberystwyth as the people are great.”

On Saturday, 29 August, Basil said on Facebook: “Well that was a rush.

“Thanks to all customers, friends and fellow fisher folk, sorry to see the end of GB Fishing Angling Centre shop. Thanks for the cards, flowers and bottles of wine. Amazing.”

The well wishes and gifts followed his previous post, on 13 August, in which he said: “It's time to retire.

“GB Fishing is closing at the end of August.

“I've reached the grand old age of 75 and the building the shop is in is going to be remodelled when the Belle Vue Hotel is redone.

“What an amazing group of customers and friends I have made in this time.

“Thanks to everyone over the years.

“Tight lines and hopefully we can meet somewhere fishing.”