A long-established Cirencester shop that was set to close at the end of the year has been saved after a buyer was found.

GH Knight, a stationery and printing shop on Silver Street for more than 45 years, was set to close after former owners Derek and Annie Pitt announced they were retiring in August and a buyer wasn’t found.

But thankfully, after reading about the news in The Standard, Julie Godley got in touch and has now completed the takeover of the business.

Julie said: “I ended up in Cirencester by accident as I was looking at the college for my son to attend.

“I needed something to do and I saw the business needed a new owner so I decided to take it on.

“It is amazing to see what the response has been, I have never came across a business so loved by the community, it has completely blown me away.

“I want to say thank you to everyone for the welcome, it has been lovely meeting you all.

“We are now busy sourcing new stock, with a difference.

“We will have basic stationery but in addition to that we will have more creative stationery and designer ranges at affordable prices.

Former owner Derek said: “It is great news for the shop and I am delighted it will carry on.

“Julie is friendly, focused and has some great ideas.

“It is such a loved business and I wish Julie every success in the future.”