I have it from Jack Parker himself that his shop sells many more bicycles than would be expected for a cycle shop of this size. Which is no surprise me, as Jack Parker Cycles of Burscough is a bit of a legend locally, and certainly the first name on the lips of many casual cyclists for miles around. And I've also encountered 'serious' road cyclists in the store every time I've been there.
I've had a couple of bikes serviced here, and the price seemed reasonable enough. Jack himself is a very warm and friendly personality and the other staff I've dealt with have all been communicative, businesslike and skilled mechanics. As with most local cycle shops, Jack Parker cram a huge amount of stock into a small space and there are more bikes on display on the first floor.
Recently, I was in the market for a new bike and visited several bike shop, including Jack Parker. It was a mountain bike with less nubby tires I was after, and the range of Claude Butler bikes that Jack Parker had on offer were not on display elsewhere. These Claude Butler bikes were all competitively priced, and somehow represented a pragmatic choice. For example, puncture proof tyres came fitted as standard whereas these needed to be bought separately for most bikes on sale at other shops.
I notice Jack Parker are now offering cycle hire, at least to get you to Martin Mere WWT, and I think that would make a great day out from Manchester or wherever - catch a train to Burscough or Burscough Bridge Train Station both of which are close to the cycle shop.
Lastly, yes, of course you can find some great deals online for cycles and accessories. But if you don't know what you're doing, you can just as easily waste money or end up with a bike which doesn't match your needs as well as it might. If you're local, and you only plan to visit one bike shop, you won't go wrong with Jack Parker for practical buying advice, after-sales service and the inevitable repairs in the years ahead. read more