The last trace of one of Watford’s most historic department stores will soon be gone.

Clements Carpets in The Parade will hold a closing down sale next week after taking the tough decision to shut its doors due to finances and poor trade.

Clements has a rich history in Watford. It opened in The Parade in 1898 and was at one point the biggest department store in town and was a huge part of the town’s history before it closed down in 2004.

There is a popular perception that BBC sitcom Are You Being Served? was based on Clements.

Owner Alan Brooks and his brother have been operating Clements since 2008, having initially worked as carpet fitters.

The pair moved into Charter Place before they were returned to a site in The Parade when the decision was made to close Charter Place.

Mr Brooks said: “This is the last remaining trace of Clements. When it’s gone, it’s gone. Clements is one of the most poignant brands and Watford has Clements running through it. People are still upset about the main store closure. It’s an institution.”

The closing down sale will take place next Thursday, Friday, and Saturday.

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