South Wales record shop set to close after owner announces retirement

Amelia Jones

A well-known independent vinyl shop in south Wales is preparing to close after its owner announces plans to retire.

Heart of the Valleys Records in Blackwood, run by Alun Kent and his wife Maria, will shut later this year after serving music lovers in the town for more than a decade.

The couple have announced a closing-down sale, with all stock reduced by half from Saturday, April 11. The sale will run for five weeks as they begin winding down the business.

Any records that remain unsold will be packed up and sent to Sullivan’s Auction in Merthyr Tydfil in June. The pair plan to clear the shop, located at 17 The Market Place, before handing the keys back in August.

Before moving to its current premises around four and a half years ago, Heart of the Valleys Records spent almost a decade trading inside Emily’s Indoor Market. Over the years the shop developed a strong following among collectors and vinyl enthusiasts.

Known for its extensive collection of second-hand records, the shop stocked thousands of albums spanning a wide range of genres including Northern soul, ska, metal, jazz and classic rock.

The store also became known locally for celebrating Welsh music, with Kent previously described as a passionate supporter and collector of rare recordings from Welsh artists.

Speaking about the decision to close, the couple said they were grateful to the many customers, suppliers and friends who have supported the business over the years.

They said the shop had been the setting for countless memorable moments, including helping people rediscover records they had been searching for, for years.

As the shop prepares to close its doors, Kent said he is looking forward to stepping back and enjoying retirement after years spent buying, selling and discussing music with customers

Reacting to the news online, many customers expressed their sadness but wished Kent a happy retirement.

One commenter write: “Happy Retirement! Bought some great stuff from you ! Shame to see you go ”

Another added: “Sorry you’re closing your lovely shop, glad you are off to enjoy your retirement! Catch you before you close mate.”