AN independent trader says rising costs have forced her to shut up shop, after 15 years in York city centre.

Jan Davies, who runs Gabby's Of York women's dress shop, in Goodramgate, said she is closing this month because rent increases and higher business rates mean the shop is no longer viable.

Mrs Davies, who lives in Escrick, near Selby, is now looking to find new premises outside York.

Mrs Davies said: "I have been in the fashion business all my life. Before I came to York, I designed for M&S, back when this country had industry here.

"I just think it's such a shame that more and more small businesses are being forced to go to the wall because of high rents. The end result will be a characterless city centre with just chain shops. It's quite sad really.

"At the end of the day, we have sold something completely different that nobody else sells, and that will come to an end this month.

"I think York will suffer because of the demise of small businesses like ours, but I hope my experience won't put people off having a go at opening up a business, because most of my time here has been wonderful."

Gabby's will close its doors on January 16. It follows the announcement by the owner of one of York's oldest independent retailers that he would be shutting up shop.

Edmund Jackson Menswear, which has been in Davygate for more than 67 years, is to close, owner Paul Jackson revealed.

Mr Jackson, the third generation of his family to run the shop, said he wanted to explore new pastures. He said he would retain ownership of the grade II listed building, which has been the clothes shop's home, but would be seeking a tenant.

The president of York and North Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce, Andrew Lindsay, said although York still has a thriving retail market, some small businesses are struggling to survive.

"The chamber is always disappointed to hear of businesses, particularly independent retailers, finding the going tough and shutting down.

"It's fair to say particularly independent retailers face stiff competition from the big national retailers.

"Any high street in the country is seeing a higher concentration of the national retailers. However, there is always a place for innovative new small businesses in the market."

Updated: 10:00 Tuesday, January 03, 2006