A Watford shoe shop is to close after more than 50 years in the town.

Gordon Scott in the intu centre is one of the town’s most established shops - it's monkey window display has been a feature in the town since the 1960s.

But due to falling trade, the business - owned by Jones Bootmaker - has decided to close the doors of its Watford branch for the last time.

It means 17 staff members will lose their jobs.

Manager Sue Allard said the lease came to an end and would not be not extended.

She said: "I have been here for 21 years and am obviously gutted to see it go.

"The customers are in shock and have all said they will miss us.

"Unfortunately footfall has kept falling over the last few years, it is a sad fact.

"I will be very sad to leave, we have had many happy years here."

The shop moved from the High Street into the intu centre in 1999.

It is well known for the monkey that has swung in high bars nestled among the window display for 50 years.

Alfie the Ape was the first Gordon Scott monkey introduced to the shop in the 1960s. When he wore out he was replaced by Charlie the Chimp, but he was replaced by Champ the Chimp in 2014.

Staff were told at the start of April of the closure. The last day will be in early June. All shoes in store have been reduced. 

Gordon Scott trades from three other stories in Solihill, Nottingham and Windsor.

Jones Bootmaker was approached for a comment but did not respond.

Do you have fond memories of the store? Did you work there? Comment below or email charlotte.ikonen@london.newsquest.co.uk.