One of Romsey’s best-loved shops has fallen victim to the economic downturn.

Volumes bookshop, in Latimer Walk, is to close, owner, Simon Hunter, announced this week.

It brings to an end over 11 years of trading in Romsey, during which time the shop took an active part in many different community activities. Mr Hunter, 34, said: “It has been the hardest decision of my life to take, and one that may be a surprise to many, but from a bottom-line point of view, I can’t keep the shop open any longer.”

He told the Advertiser there had been a number of factors contributing to the demise of the business, which only last year was short-listed for two industry awards.

On top of the credit crunch, Volumes had been unable to sell the lease on it former premises in Bell Street, since moving to Latimer Walk in 2008.

Dominos Pizza wanted to take the Bell Street premises, but were turned down by planners and are currently preparing a fresh application for the site.

Last year, Volumes came under further pressure when a cut-price competitor, Super Book, opened in the Hundred.

“Unfortunately, the book market in Romsey is only a limited size,” said Mr Hunter. “It’s very sad that the town will be losing its independent bookshop.”

The shop employs three part-time staff.

Mr Hunter, who has been proprietor for the last six years since taking over from original owner, Elpeth Dugdale, said he had no idea what he would next.

Volumes, established in 1998, took over as the bookseller in Romsey from the former bookshop, Ruskins and brought a more modern approach. Book-related events have business. It has hosted book-signings by best-selling authors, book groups, the annual World Book Day celebrations, travel talks and competitions. Many events have been run with schools.

Simon continued: “It’s been fantastic to be part of such a great community and to get to know so many loyal customers, to whom I extend my heartfelt thanks. “Volumes has always been a friendly and exciting place to come and I hope this will remain until we close our doors for the final time.”

The Volumes closing down sale begins today (Friday) and all stock will be reduced until cleared.