The Strawberry Barn, off the A1 near West Barns, announced that it was closing earlier this afternoon (Wednesday).

A statement was posted on social media where customers were thanked for their support and the decision to close was described as “heart-breaking”.

The statement reads: “It is with great regret and much sadness that today we announce the closure of The Strawberry Barn.

“The cumulative effects of the pandemic, Brexit, the war in Ukraine and the cost-of-living crisis have been too much for the business to bear and continuing to operate in these conditions has become untenable.

“This was a devastating decision to have to make, but at this point we have been left with no other option.

“The external factors make it no easier to bear and no less heart-breaking that things have come to this point, and we are so grateful to both the staff and customers who have stuck with us and offered their loyalty, support and understanding over the last three years.

“Anyone directly affected by the closure will be contacted personally by email, and we greatly appreciate your understanding while we do our absolute best to address everyone’s queries and concerns.”