Independent online record shop and label alt.vinyl has announced that it is to close after 13 years.

It began life as a record shop based in Newcastle opened by Graham Thrower, but soon changed to an online-only organisation, while remaining very much rooted in its northern surroundings putting out records from Richard Dawson and :zoviet*france: amongst others. In total, the label released more than 70 records.

“It’s been great to have been a part of a global independent music community but the time is right… this cycle has come to a close," Thrower wrote on the label's website. "At the risk of a long post I’d just like to thank all those artists that alt.vinyl has had the pleasure to work with and release over the years.

"Thanks to all of you out there, customers, supporters, press, stockists who have supported the label in your own way. It has meant a lot… It’s been a trip… thanks for everything.”

Most stock from the shop will now be sold off at half price for a limited time only. As Graham's post concludes: "better for this stuff to be on a turntable than in a box".