THE DEVASTATING personal impact of the recession came to light this week as a businessman revealed his family are set to become homeless after his shop was forced to close.

Martin Close, owner of Art Culture in West Street, Marlow, has spoken of the “absolute hell in the past year” fighting to keep the business going and predicted more gloom ahead for traders.

He said fellow retailers in the town centre fear as many as one third of Marlow’s businesses could close in the New Year.

Mr Close lives above the art gallery with his three children and partner and will be without a home when it is sold. He said: “ As soon as the first bank went bust we saw a large drop in turnover.

"We tried all kinds of things to battle it but there's nothing else we can do now other than close. Last year was very slow, very difficult.

“There are a lot of businesses in Marlow that are struggling and hanging on by their fingernails.”

Fragrance and toiletries seller Sensations and coffee shop Cafe Torrelli closed in the High Street recently, while this week it was revealed that JAG communications in Market Place has also been forced to shut.

Mr Close said: “Now we are selling, at least we are trying to, so we haven't got a place to live.

“It's a sad time of year really.

"It's been absolute hell in the past year and it's not just me there are a lot of people really struggling, hanging on by their fingernails."

“Something retailers feel is that possibly as many as one third of traders will not be here in Marlow in the New Year.

Paul Deriaz planning, transport and development spokesman for the Marlow Chamber of Trade and Commerce disputed that a third of businesses could go but said he recognises the difficulties retailers are experiencing.

He said:"I'm not sure how he (Mr Close) comes to that sort of figure but the chamber is very aware of the very tough trading conditions.

“Marlow has got a good reputation and my feeling is that it will sustain itself, arguably a lot better than some other towns.

“I'm one of these guys who was around in the last recession in 1991 to 1994 and Marlow managed to sustain itself through that whereas other towns didn't fare so well.

“Products have to be sold at the right price and attractively and shops well-managed but overall I'm certain that Marlow will do well.

“Having said that, I do appreciate it’s going to be hard work the next few months.”

However, despite the downturn, one new venture - health and nutrition company Shape Up Ltd - will launch in January while the empty space left by Sensations has been temporarily taken by gift shop Hutton’s.

Art Culture has been based in West Street for nearly five years and held exhibitions, showcasing work by historic international artists Picasso, Salvador Dali, Chegall and Miro.

The shop opens its doors for the final time on Sunday with all remaining items being sold at half price.