A SPECIALIST bicycle retailer has been wound up after it ceased trading.

Dozens of customers reported placing orders for top-end bicycles and parts with Ubyk, which had a shop in Sydney Street in Brighton.

Notices appeared on the shop doors stating the shop was “closed for a refit” in December, and one staff member told The Argus that the shop had “ceased trading”.

At the time, he said the shop would be closed for the Christmas period, with the hope of finding a buyer for the business in the new year.

But the company has officially announced it has gone into liquidation. On the Gazette, which lists businesses in liquidation, Ubyk chairman James Heath said the company had appointed liquidators for a voluntary winding-up order.

The company, which was based in Abingdon in Oxfordshire and also had a shop there, is now in the hands of Julie Palmer and Stephen Powell from Begbies Traynor LLP.

Angry customers from across the country say they have been left out of pocket.

On the Trust Pilot website Ryan Wheal wrote that he was £3,000 out of pocket. He said: “I bought an ‘in-stock’ Santa Cruz Bronson in the Black Friday sale.

“Money was taken immediately and I was looking forward to getting my bike within the week.

“I had no contact from Ubyk apart from a generic message. I waited a few days then called their Brighton store.

“A helpful chap told me the bike was a special order and was being built up at Santa Cruz. But after another few days there was nothing.

“I emailed them to request a refund and tried to call them numerous times, but to no avail. Their website was ‘down for maintenance’.

“I’m £3,000 out of pocket, but I paid through PayPal so I’m hoping they will sort it all for me.”

Ian Robinson posted: “I placed a £500 order for ‘in stock’ goods with Ubyk.

“Two weeks after ordering I emailed the company as I had not received anything and they said some of it was on back order. This was despite the website saying it was in stock.

“They did not respond to emails or phone calls and I was some £400 out of pocket and missing Christmas presents for the family.

“Ironically Ubyk’s moto was ‘enjoy the ride’ - I can’t say I did.”

Anyone who wishes to find out more information should call 01722 435198 or email Holly.Davies@begbies-traynor.com.