A SHOP-OWNER is stepping down from his iconic Blackburn business after 30 years to ‘travel the world’.

Steve Everett founded Canterbury Fireplaces in Canterbury Street Mill in 1986.

Mr Everett, 53, alongside wife Jackie, 52, built up the business into one of the biggest gas fire, wood-burner and fireplace retailers in the country.

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After three decades, he is set to hand over the running of the family-run firm, which employs five people, to son Lucas, 28.

Mr Everett said he had ‘worked six days a week for 30 years’ and it was now time for him to ‘get out and live life more’.

He said: “I’m going to call it a day in the next two or three weeks.

“I’ve put the hours in and built up the business that Jackie and I started with nothing.

“We’ve managed to withstand the industry changing with internet sales and I think that’s by offering personal service where people can see and touch the products they are buying.”

He said his early retirement was prompted by a bout of ill health suffered by Jackie, which forced her to finish working.

Mr Everett said: “Now it’s time for us.

“We’ve got trips planned for maybe three or four months of the year at a time.

“I’m fancying Argentina, Mexico and Columbia for the first big expedition.

“We’re going to be the oldest backpackers in South America.

“Our daughter, Sophie, lives in Australia, so that’s another destination which is on our list.”

He said it was going to be a big adjustment not having daily interaction with customers.

“I just love Lancashire folk and I think they appreciate dealing with one of their own,” he said.

“I’ve got every confidence Lucas will continue the business, help it grow and maybe go in different directions.”

The company’s design, supply and install service currently covers East Lancashire and parts of Greater Manchester.

For more information call 01254 682574.