ONE of the district's oldest petrol stations will close its pumps on Christmas Eve after 71 years.

But the pensioner whose husband set up the firm in 1931 will be the first tenant in a new homes scheme on the site.

Hingley and Callow Oils, Stourport Road, Kidderminster, has been in business since 1931.

Company director of the family-run business Helen Needham blamed pressure from supermarkets who sell petrol as a "loss leader" for the decision.

She said: "We just cannot compete with supermarkets who can afford to keep petrol prices two or three pence lower per litre. previous petrol station owner Barbara Matthews with an old picture of the site.

"It was not an easy decision to close. It's all very sad. The independent petrol station days are numbered."

Former manager of the Stourport Road station Esther Robinson said: "We will be sorely missed by many, because we provide a personal service."

The remaining two members of staff will be transferred to its other branch in Chaddesley Corbett.

Owner Jim Callow took over the station 12 years ago as part of his expanding fuel business.

Previous owner Barbara Matthews, who still lives above the premises, retired when her husband Bert died in the late 1980s.

When the development is completed, Mrs Matthews will be its first tenant in one of the new flats.

The station, originally called Foley Park Garage, was first opened by Mr Matthews, a car mechanic.

He was assisted by Mrs Matthews in the running of the business after they got married 12 years later.

The 91-year-old said: "It has been my home since 1943, it will be a bit of a blow really for sentimental reasons.."

A plan to convert the station into housing, with six two-bedroom flats, has been approved by Wyre Forest District Council planning (development control) committee.