Shock as Clarks disappears from Melton high street without warning

Residents have spoken of their shock and disapointment after the shoe shop Clarks closed without warning on Tuesday.

The shop, in Cheapside, has been in the town for a number of years but visitors were surprised to see it closed on Tuesday with no prior warning and a note saying the family owned franchise had finished trading.

It's now been confirmed that the Clarks store was a franchise operated by Radley Footwear Limited of Grantham who have been in the industry for more than 40 years and now entered Creditors Voluntary Liquidation.

In a statement issued to NEMM via the liquidators the Radley Family said: "It is with a heavy heart that we announce the closure of Radley Footwear Limited after 43 wonderful years of serving our local community, trading as Claks [sic] Franchised stores. Our last day of business was Tuesday 9^th September 2025."

Radley Family Footwear also operated under the name of Gemreap Limited for a short time in 1982.

The statment went on to say: "This decision has not come easily and is one that we've considered deeply over recent times. Unfortunately, the increasing costs and mounting pressures of operating on the UK high street have made it unsustainable for us to continue this journey.

For four decades, we have been privileged to be part of your lives, sharing in both your everyday moments and landmark occasions in particular those first shoes. We have taken immense pride in offering quality products and services while striving to maintain the values and warmth of a family business. It is the loyalty and friendships of our customers and the dedication of our incredible staff that have made this experience so rewarding.

The sign in the shop window which greeted shoppers on Tuesday. Photo: NEMM

"We are endlessly grateful to every single customer who has supported us along the way. Your loyalty and patronage have meant the world to us and have been the driving force behind our perseverance and passion."

"To our amazing staff; thank you for your loyalty and hard work, none of this would have been possible without you."

"Thank you for being part of our family. Though Radley Footwear Limited has closed its doors, the memories and connections made will remain with us always."

Kingsbridge Corporate Solutions Limited have confirmed that they have been instructed to assist in placing the Company into Creditors Voluntary Liquidation.  Any queries regarding the Liquidation should be directed to Enquiries@kingsbridgecs.com.

The Clarks name has gone from Melton's high street. Photo: NEMM

Customers with questions regarding orders should contact Clarks via the website at www.clarks.com .

The Radley family also operated a Clarks store in Grantham, which also closed on Tuesday.

Clarks were approached for comment by NEMM but referred us to the Radley Famliy Statement and didn't comment further.