In the past year, a number of St Andrews shopkeepers have warned that almost continuous roadworks outside their properties have had a devastating effect on trade.

This week two long-established firms, Ian Joy Photographic — which has been trading in the town for more than 60 years — and the town's last remaining butcher's shop, Murray Mitchell (see page three) confirmed they were closing in October, the latter due to ill health.

With long-established meal shop, J & T Rodger in South Street, ceasing trading and historic ironmonger's business Wilson's, also in South Street, only a memory, multi-national names now occupy signs above other previous independents such as Scott's the Opticians in Market Street.

This week the association which lobbies for merchants in the town said enough was enough and urged Fife Council to act before they had all disappeared.

Jude Innes, chair of St Andrews Merchants' Association, said this was a very testing time for everyone.

"Of huge concern to us is that St Andrews will be left open to multi-nationals and charity shops which won't help any of us independents.

"Nobody likes to see anyone closing down. It changes the fabric of the town. We really really need a low rates incentive for people starting up and low rents to encourage younger people to open retail units in St Andrews.

"At the moment it is just too tough to start with, and without help from the council and Government our hands are tied."

Michael Joy, proprietor of Ian Joy Photographic in Bell Street which is shutting its doors on October 18 with the loss of two full-time and one part time jobs, blames the internet and rising overheads for his decision.

"It has driven prices down to such a level that unless you have a huge turn-over, to be anything like price competitive you go under.

"Photographic shops are closing all over the country for the same reason. It is sad to see the business started by my father closing.

"However I will be continuing as a professional photographer working from home and can be contacted via the website www.ianjoy.co.uk or by telephoning the shop number which I will be retaining."

This week, Business Gateway warned that 85 per cent of Fife businesses are feeling the effects of the economic downturn.

The service is now offering companies a free, confidential meeting with a business adviser or to attend Strategic Review and Cash Management workshops.

Contact Business Gateway on 01592 858333 or e-mail success@bgateway.com.

Ms Innes, however, said these schemes wouldn't help and reiterated her call for a rate rebate.