An estate agency, which had been in business for nearly 100 years, closed its doors for the final time last Friday.

M.W. Darwin & Sons, one of Northallerton’s longest standing independent businesses, has had the same branch on 3 S Parade since 1965. Michael Darwin is the third generation of his family to have run the business since it opened.

On the announcement of the estate agency’s closure, one well-wisher said: “Bought our first house from George nearly 50 years ago and used to enjoy going into the office to pay the mortgage – in cash the way you did then. Remember Mike starting out – still think of him as a young lad! All the best for semi-retirement.”

Another commented: “Enjoy every bit of retirement and family time! Well deserved and well done Mike. Wihout a doubt, your business has been one of the backbones of Northallerton for a very long time!”

Northallerton Estate Agency added: “Wishing our fellow agent and friend Mike and his team all the best for the future. We will miss having you pop in. From all At Northallerton Estate Agency and Northallerton Auction Mart.”

But while the estate agency side of the business has closed, M.W. Darwin & Sons has confirmed that its auction house on Bedale Street, Northallerton will remain open.