Holloway Road institution 308 Hobbies to shut forever

A Holloway Road institution will be shutting forever in the New Year.

308 Hobbies has been selling radio-controlled models in the shop since 1946.

It featured as the Gazette’s business of the week earlier this year. Born and bred Islingtonian Richard Harris, who took over the shop 17 years ago, told how he used to peer longingly through the window as a boy.

When the previous owners, the Nicholls family, were selling up, Richard had just entered retirement. But he loved the shop so much, he couldn’t resist taking over.

He is retiring for good this time, but confirmed the shop will shut on February 1: “I can’t find anyone remotely interested in taking it on. Everything’s gone internet crazy.

“It’s very sad, heart-breaking in fact, but I’ve come to terms with it. I fought hard to keep it going 17 years ago, and it worked for a while, but the internet has changed the agenda.”

Richard, 68, of Highbury, plans to move to the West Country for his second retirement – saying it’s a more suitable environment to pursue his model hobby.