AS of September 1, Pembroke’s Main Street Music will be changing the way it operates and will no longer trade as a retail shop. It is not disappearing completely though, as proprietor George Parfitt made clear with his recent announcement.

It follows the closure of a number of music and musical instrument shops in the county in recent years.

As the last pro guitar dealership in Pembrokeshire, this will be a great loss to the county, but George hopes his loyal customers will be able to share his joy in looking on to the next chapter and following his life’s passion.

“As many of you know my passion is with making musical instruments which I have been doing since a teenager, having received scholarships and fellowship for my studies, and dedicated much of my time to this craft.

“After college I was given the opportunity to buy this business which was too good to pass on at 24 years old. I have had an amazing time running this shop giving it everything I’ve got, met some wonderful people and sold some incredible guitars!

“The business itself is successful, but margins within retail are tighter than ever, pressures from dealerships, and rising costs make it difficult to grow in a way that would allow me to employ others, step back and focus on the workshop. I’ve explored several options, but ultimately I’ve come to the conclusion that it’s time for a change.

“The reality is that running a growing retail business involves far more than most people see from the outside. Despite my best efforts over the last few years, I have never been able to find a sustainable balance between running the shop and spending the time in the workshop that I want to dedicate to building instruments.

“The shop will eventually re-open as an appointment only workshop/showroom for handmade guitars and repairs, but for now the retail space will be closing to public so I can get back to making guitars. Of course, I owe a massive thank you to all that have supported this wonderful business over the last few years- and I’m proud to have taken this shop to where it is now.”

And that support continues. Music journalist and broadcaster BB Skone responded to the announcement: “Follow your dreams George, I know you'll be successful in the new endeavour for you approach your work with determination, imagination and humour.”

Rhian Cowen said: “It is sad to hear this but you have an incredible talent and heart and I’m certain that your workshop will still be an incredible asset to our Main Street and the musical community of Pembrokeshire. With your commitment and work ethic this will be an exciting new chapter for you.”

As for current repairs, George is still taking in jobs on a case-by-case basis - with appointment only.

The shop is still open until September 1 and a sale is now on, with all stock reduced by 15 per cent. See www.mainstreetmusic.co.uk for opening hours.