AN independent record dealer has blamed the building of a Sainsbury's supermarket on his doorstep for his decision to quit after 18 years in business.

Harry Blackwell, of Castle Records in Bridge Street, Darwen, is closing for good because the "impossible" competition posed by the retail giant.

He said the final nail in the coffin came when the Hardman Way store sold the new Texas album two days before its official release date.

The store later apologised and blamed the breach of contract on an oversight by staff.

"I am very bitter because I believe a multi-national retailer was promoted above local traders," said Mr Blackwell.

Mr Blackwell resigned in protest from Darwen Town Centre Association when the go-ahead was given to build the store over a year ago.

He added: "The supermarkets we had before were more than sufficient. The council kept talking about the extra trade Sainsbury's would bring, but that obviously hasn't happened.

"It's clear to me that the council wanted Sainsbury's to come, whatever the cost to others.

"Stores like Sainsbury's stock music as loss leaders to get people in and it is impossible for me to compete. It is very sad that it's come to this and I want to thank all the customers I've had over the past 18 years."

Brian Davies, of Audiotec in Duckworth Street, Darwen, is aiming to carry on the presence of an independent record dealer in the town. In conjunction with Castle Records he will start stocking new releases and current CD single and albums. Some cassettes will be available, along with a special ordering service.

He said: "I am very sad to see Harry leave Bridge Street. We used to sell records and because of our strong link with music we will start up again."

A spokesman for Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council said: "Mr Blackwell has contributed a great deal to the Darwen Town Centre Association and his experience will be sadly missed.

"The majority of businesses welcomed the arrival of Sainsbury's. The view that it has failed to bring more people into the town is very much a minority one.

"More than 40,000 Darwen town centre guides were produced and distributed and Sainsbury's have done their bit by putting up a wall chart in the store, promoting other local businesses."

A spokeswoman for Sainsbury's added: "As we all know retailing is a very competitive business, which ultimately benefits the customers.

"From past experience we know that it is possible for small and large businesses to work side by side offering a wide variety of services and goods."

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