A famous Manx landmark could be shutting down for good.

For more than four decades, Jurby Junk, a cavernous emporium of antiques, bric-a-brac, clothing, ephemera and books, has traded from the village in the north of the island.

Since its inception in 1972, it has been the essential destination for tourists, amateur dramatics enthusiasts and anyone wanting pretty much anything they can’t find anywhere else.

But last year, founder and owner, Stella Pixton announced the business was for sale.

A sign outside the premises said: ’Jurby Junk and Books. I have been a tenant for 40 years.

’This is Government property. The rent is rising to £30,000 p.a. (approx with VAT) in 2018.

’It may be unlikely that I shall be able to continue at this rate. Is there a buyer/entrepreneur who would take on the lease with fresh profitable ideas?

’Any offer for quick sale or takeover considered. It will be a loss to the Isle of Man tourist industry if it were to be dismantled. Enquire within.’

There has been no announcement of a possible buyer for the business, and Ms Pixton has declined to make any comment either on a sale or a possible closure. However, the Manx Independent understands the business is to cease trading though it will remain open for several months yet.

For a number of years, the business traded from the old armoury building in Jurby before later moving to much bigger premises.

The business has become something of a landmark in the island and has over the years been featured on various television programmes, including BBC television’s Antiques Roadshow and the Travel Channel’s Greatest Motorcycle Rides of the World.

Ms Pixton is also an artist and poet and displays her work at the shop. Her father, Howard Pixton, was the first British winner of the Schneider Trophy air race at Monte Carlo in 1914.

The win, using a British plane, was seen as putting Britain ahead in aviation for the first time. He is also credited with piloting the first fare-paying passengers away from the island. He moved to the Isle of Man in 1932 where he became a leading figure in Manx aviation.

He died in 1972 and is buried at Jurby Churchyard.

Ms Pixton has continued to run Jurby Junk, which is open daily, since inviting offers to buy the business last year.