It was announced as closing just days ago but Punchline understands people are pedalling hard behind the scenes to save one of the county's most iconic bicycle shops.

Chris and Charlotte Hart have run the Five Valleys bike business Noah's Bike Shop since 1983 when it opened from its original premises in Chalford.

Mr Hart trained as an architect, raced motorcycles for a spell and dabbled in the jewellery business before opening the cycle shop.

Now firmly embedded alongside the re-developing Thames & Severn Canal at Brimscombe the business has long been established as a go-to place for the serious mountain biker and cyclist.

But a posting on Facebook looked like it was going to be a case of "all good things must come to an end".

"After 35 years trading. Chris and Charlotte have made the difficult decision to retire and with this Noah's Ark will cease trading.

"Thank you to all of our loyal customers and the brands that we have had the pleasure to work with.

"A retirement sale will begin in the shop with 25-50 per cent off everything. The workshop will no longer be taking bookings but will still be available for the fitting of parts purchased in the shop.

"Once again thank you to everyone! And be sure to pop in soon! Noah's."

Scores of complimentary comments followed the posting as customers past and present paid tribute to the business and the pleasure it had given them.

However, Punchline understands talks are underway between the couple and potential buyers to continue the otherwise successful business and allow the name Noah's Ark to continue to be at the heart of cycling in Gloucestershire.

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