A joke and magic store that claims to be the world’s oldest has closed its doors after 138 years.

Tam Shepherds Trick Shop has been a Glasgow institution since 1886.

The store has attracted generations of aspiring magicians, thanks to its collection of jokes and costumes, as well as magic tricks.

Magician Roy Walton worked behind the counter for decades before his death in 2020, but volumes of his books are still sold.

He owned the store from 1969 to 2019 and passed it on to his daughters, Julia and Sarah.

The family-owned Queen Street business will only go online due to the building’s redevelopment.

A statement on Facebook from the store read: “We are sad to announce that Saturday November 9 was the last day of trading at our long-standing physical store located on Queen Street. The building we are part of is to be redeveloped.

“The new development includes retail space and we have the opportunity to reopen in what we hope will be a revitalized, small business friendly downtown.”

“However, the uncertainty surrounding the redevelopment as well as the high costs of operating a small independent store in a city center are not sustainable for us.

“Tam Shepherds will continue its online store, providing customers with our range of magic tricks, jokes and costumes.

“To all our customers and friends, thank you very much for your customization and support. We hope to welcome you again in the future. And thanks to Glasgow for making Tam Shepherds the store it was.

Commenting on Facebook, one person wrote: “The story of the magic shop is known around the world. Visiting magicians always passed by when they were in town.

“So it’s sad that the store is closed. I would be happy to know if a new location is available for you all in the future. A visit to the store over 40 years ago started my magical journey. It’s still that journey today.

Another added: “Sad news, for a store that is a constant in Glasgow, my dad went to this store when I was a child in the late 40s and 50s, taking my brother and I there in the 1960s 60s and 70s, to take my children there in the 90s-2000s.

“Many children will no longer have the fun of looking for jokes, tricks, etc. to play with family and friends.”