Robert Nicklas is closing his family-run Hull pet store after 71 years but has revealed he's staying in the industry to run his successful VIP Engravers business.

Robert firmly denied reports in his local newspaper that he was calling time on Thearne’s Pet Store to take early retirement, and told Pet Trade Xtra: “I am very successful with VIP Engravers so I'm closing to concentrate on that.”       

But he admitted he would be also spending more time on his music interests, which would mean doing more live performances with his band called The Planks.

Exhibitors to the PATS would have been entertained by Robert and his group during drinks receptions at the trade shows.

“It’s sad to be closing the pet store but I feel the time is right to concentrate on VIP Engravers,” said Robert.

“During the war my Grandma opened a horsemeat-for-human-consumption shop. After the war it switched to selling meat for dogs and then my dad Eric took over from there on finishing his national service in 1946.

“He expanded into being a general pet store and we've been in Hull city centre ever since. My son came into the business, but he left to be a chartered surveyor. We are closing after 71 years."