A lot's changed in Aughton over the years - and not always for the better...

And so it was a bittersweet day on Saturday when one of the village's favourite stores closed its doors for the last time as Howard and Sheila Huyton both retired.

Sydney Huyton's closed after 70 years trading; Howard's sister Pauline worked there since leaving school at 16 and the Town Green butchers, grocers and deli. was a byword for quality in the days when many shop at supermarkets rather than appreciate good local food served by knowledgeable staff who make friends of their customers.

And many of those loyal customers joined family and friends to celebrate the occasion with grandson Sean travelling all the way from Monaco for the big day.

Said the family: “We would like to thank customers past and present for a wonderful 70 years trading. It's been a blast and without you all it wouldn’t have been the same.

“Finally to our wonderful staff past and present who have been part of the Huyton family: THANK YOU SO MUCH.

“Wish everyone the best for the future and keep safe and well, John , Helen, Jane, Danny, Alex, Sean, Mia and David Huyton.

"THANK YOU!"

Sons John and David have spent the last year or so deciding their future paths away from the family business with the premises now sold.