AN INDEPENDENT shop has closed its doors after serving the Wotton community for four decades.
A sign has been placed on the window of AC Partners butcher’s shop in the High Street blaming increasing costs on the closure.
The independent butchers had been a familiar sight in Long Street for the last 40 years.
Owner Matt Garrad said in a statement that it was 'no longer possible’ to continue.
He said: “It is with great sadness that after 40 years as an independent butcher servicing the people of Wotton and the surrounding area, the business will close on Saturday (October 29).
“During my 20 years here and more recently as owner, I have enjoyed providing the service that I know many of you want.
“I am very grateful for the support and loyalty that so many customers have shown.
“Due to lack of high street trade and in the new climate of ever increasing costs and overheads, regrettably it is no longer possible to continue.
“Thank you again to my loyal customers and friends.”
Matt took over the business in 2019 after starting at the shop as an apprentice when he was just 18 years old.
READ MORE: From butcher's apprentice to boss
In a Gazette article he previously said: “They’re a really friendly bunch in Wotton.
“It’s been great seeing generations of the same family come in over the years, and still be serving them today.
Wotton residents have been reacting to the sad news on Facebook.
A Wotton resident Ginny Mann said: “I was very sorry to see this notice.
“How sad to see an independent shop close because of the struggles in this economic climate.
“It’s a big reminder that we must support our local shops or they will disappear.”
Another commenter said: “Shame. All the best for the future Matt.”
Fellow Wotton trader Fifi Parsons who owns Fifi's fancy furniture said: “It does make you worry.
“AC partners have been in the high street a really long time and it came as a shock to see them close.
“I’ve been running my shop for seven years and I’ve noticed the drop in customers.
“The high street is definitely quieter.
“We might lose more long established businesses like AC partners.
“We need to make people think before they go straight to Amazon.
“Imagine if there were no independent shops left and just supermarkets and charity shops?
"We need to keep up morale."
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