Burnley motorcycle dealer closes after 50 years

A family-owned Burnley motorcycle dealer has closed down after more than 50 years in business.

James Sandiford Motorcycles was estblished in 1956 when it sold classic British bikes made by the likes of Norton and BSA.

The business later focused on off-road trial bikes spurred on by the off-road competition career of Jim Sandiford, the son of the shop’s founder.

Until last month the business was run by the fourth generation of Sandifords but administrators from the accountancy firm RSM Tenon were appointed on February 26.

They are now planning to dispose of the assets of the business which operated from 5,000 sq ft premises in the town. Four staff have been made redundant.

Jeremy Woodside, joint administrator, said: “Like most companies involved mainly in motorsport pursuits, James Sandiford has experienced a sustained period of difficult trading, and it is sad that we have had to lose a business with so much history. It is a loss to Burnley, as much as it is to motorbike enthusiasts across the country.”