Jessops is to close its only dedicated classic camera store in the UK – a shop in Great Russell Street, London which has been open since 1988.

Jessops head office declined to give a reason for the proposed closure ? or tell us whether or not the shop will be replaced – merely saying the move is ?part of an ongoing review of our property portfolio?.

The shop is the only Jessops store in the UK where customers can view and buy second-hand collectable cameras, confirmed a Jessops spokesman. However, the company insists that customers will still be able to buy second-hand gear by ordering equipment by mail order via Jessops? website.

Staff at the Jessops Classic shop ? which is opposite the British Museum – are expected to be offered alternative positions elsewhere in the company.

The Jessops spokesman revealed that the shop is on the market but he said the company does not expect a quick sale.

He told us: ?We remain committed as ever to offering a wide range of classic photographic products for enthusiasts and collectors.?

Jessops Classic ? a division of The Jessops Group plc ? boasts ?thousands? of customers worldwide, according to the company?s website. ?It was the first major UK retail outlet to dedicate an entire store to the discerning collector,? adds the website.

Staff at the London store declined to comment when we contacted them.

Picture credit: Chris Cheesman