Bowleys Fine Shoes, a staple of the Richmond high street for many years, has closed.

The shoe shop on George Street has faced financial challenges including ever-increasing competition from online retailers.

The added hit from the coronavirus pandemic has led to its parent company, Johnsons Shoes Company, being bought out by Newjohn Ltd which is part of the independent retailer, Daniel Footwear.

A total of 66 jobs have been saved, but 105 have been lost including positions at the store in Richmond and East Sheen.

Nearby existing stores in Twickenham, Teddington, Walton-on-Thames, Farnham, Staines and Northwood, however, have all been saved, and will continue to trade as Johnsons Shoes.

About new owners Daniel Footwear

Daniel Footwear is a Leeds-based independent retailer founded by Daniel Buck 27 years ago which now has 20 stores operating under the Daniel brand.

The company has won awards for its online trading.

Ian Defty and Richard Toone from insolvency and restructuring firm CVR Global were appointed as joint administrators of Johnsons Shoes Company, and successfully secured a buyer for part of the business.

'One of the most volatile economic times in memory'

Mr Defty said: "Rescuing any high street retailer during one of the most volatile economic periods in living memory is no mean feat - so we are pleased to have saved a significant number of jobs and half of the store's estate.

"The business has traded strongly for many years, but last year was particularly difficult for them as they battled with rising rent and business rates, combined with the increasing competition from online shopping.

"However, we believe we have found a buyer who, with more than 20 years of retail experience, is the perfect fit for Johnsons Shoes as they are ideally placed to help them expand their online presence and product offering."