A Cumnock shopping legend has thanked her customers and friends for their "incredible" support as she prepares to retire.

Isabel Robertson says she's looking forward to spending more time with her husband Jim when she hands over the reins of Knit One Kids Too at the end of the month, almost four decades after setting up the business.

Starting off by selling balls of wool in 1983, Isabel and Jim built a large and loyal following in Cumnock, becoming the popular store for people to shop for kids' clothes.

Originally from Auchinleck, Isabel opened her first store in the early 80s in Cumnock's old precinct, before moving to a larger unit in the centre a few years later and then latterly to Townhead Street.

And she admitted that to feeling some sadness as she gets set to retire, she's been overwhelmed at the level of support shown by townspeople over the years.

"It's been amazing journey," Isabel told the Chronicle, "and I'm sad that it's coming to an end.

"We started out just selling wool and then went into children's clothes and we've loved every minute of it.

"The support we've had throughout the years has been incredible. I consider these people my friends more than customers.

"Especially over the last few years when it's been really tough for a lot of businesses.

"I like to be a friendly face and help people as much as possible, I'll miss some aspects of it."

Isabel, who was presented with a bouquet of flowers as a retirement 'thank you' gift by Stewart Birrell of Cumnock Business Association this week, is now looking forward to spending time with Jim.

She added: "It'll be nice to spend time with my husband and be able to enjoy ourselves.

"We've loved every minute of it and we're glad the business is going to be in capable hands."