THE long-running Studley Car Boot Sale is set to close after more than 30 years in business.

Organiser Anabelle Matthews said it was with a "heavy heart" that the popular boot sale is closing, 33 years after her parents Jeremy and Geraldine Quinney first set up the business on land at Jill Lane.

Writing on the business' Facebook page, she said: "It is with a heavy heart that I write to say that this will be the last year of the Studley Car Boot Sale.

"I have been part of this amazing business for 33 years when my parents decided to hold the first car boot sale on the land and 40 booters turned up - my father was thrilled! How things have changed!"

Thanking booters and staff for their support, Anabelle added: "The teams of staff, regular booters and visitors and of course caterers have all made the car boot sale the success it has been over the years. I am so grateful for the kindness, loyalty, care and support that we have received.

"All good things must come to an end."

The business usually holds 14 boot sales a year, and three more are set to take place this year with the next one lined up for Sunday September 5.

Anabelle sought to clear up speculation about the closure, stating on Facebook that the land has not been sold and no houses are lined up to be built there.

She also quashed rumours that the Amazon would be building a warehouse on the land.

The ownership of the family land has been shared since her parents' death and the future of the acreage is in discussion, Anabelle wrote.

She added: "Each week I am so lucky to meet so many wonderful people who enjoy the car boot for so many different reasons. If you haven't visited us yet, now is the time!"