THE owner of Teignmouth's only cycle shop is getting on his bike, and moving to Newton Abbot.

Simon Northway (pictured), of Fairlight Cycles, Northumberland Place, says the overheads of running his store in the recession are so high he has to leave.

'Most retailers are suffering in the economic downturn, and I am no exception.

'It will be a pity to leave Teignmouth after more than four years, but I have little choice. I am negotiating to take over smaller premises close to the centre of Newton Abbot, which does not have a cycle store at the moment.'

Mr Northway, who lives in Kingsteignton, said he intended to concentrate on the higher end of the market, especially his own Flight brand of on and off road bikes that he builds to individual specifications. These can cost anything from £1,000 to £10,000.

He will also still be carrying out repairs and maintenance, and selling a wide range of accessories.

'I will also be launching a new website where customers will be able to place orders. Hopefully many of my loyal customers who I have dealt with for many years will visit me at Newton Abbot,' he added.

His departure at the end of the month will be a blow to Teignmouth cyclists, and means another empty shop in the town centre.