THERE is still £3 million worth of diamonds that need to be sold at Bolton’s iconic Prestons of Bolton before it closes down.

The famous store — previously known as the Diamond Centre of the North — is looking to shift its entire stock after announcing in August that it will be shutting its doors for good after nearly 150 years of trading in the town.

A closing down sale was launched last month, with hundreds of bargain hunters queuing around the corner of the famous Timeball Building on its opening day.

Store bosses confirmed that since the sale started, around £2 million worth of stock has been sold — with many items going with a 60 per cent discount.

Prestons had originally stated that the sale would end on December 31 — but this could be extended if there is still stock remaining.

Store manager Sue Meade said: "The closing down sale is the only definite and the current trading conditions in Bolton remain very difficult.

She added: “There is still £3 million worth of diamonds left to sell."

Prestons said that December 31 remains the ‘ideal’ date for closing as that has always been the ‘logical option’ but assessments will be made nearer the time.

It is not yet known what will happen to the iconic building in Deansgate once Prestons has closed down.

The building is privately owned and is currently leased by the diamond store firm.

Iconic jewellery store Prestons of Bolton to close after nearly 150 years in town centre

PICTURES: History of iconic jewellers Prestons of Bolton

Prestons of Bolton has been a fixture in Bolton town centre since 1869 when it was founded by goldsmith James Preston.

The business was inherited by James’ niece, Gertrude Duckworth in 1905 following his death.

The store moved to its current in location 1913 and was the only jewellery store outside of London to trade on four floors and feature the novelty of a customer lift.

By the mid-1970s, Prestons of Bolton had become one of the most famous jewellery stores in the country, with couples travelling from all over to purchase engagement rings and wedding rings.

There are currently 17 staff working at the store, and the firm said it hopes that all members of the ‘valued team’ will remain within the group.