A BUSINESS that has served the people of Ludlow for 40 years will soon be no more.

After 40 years of trading, butcher and grocery shop Carters of Ludlow is planning to call it a day and close its doors for the final time at the end of October.

The business, in Coder Road, is closing for "an accumulation of a number of reasons".

The owners said: "After a lot of consideration and summing up of what's best for us as a family we have decided at the end of October we will be hanging up our aprons one last time. It is an accumulation of a number of reasons and feel that this is the right time for us.

"We will continue to source the best local meat and produce until our last day and hope that you will support us until we close the door one last time.

"We would like to take this opportunity in thanking past and present customers for your support in making our little shop what it is today. We have loved creating the local corner shop, supporting businesses and the community, and we couldn't have done it without you all. 

"Thank you again and hope you understand."

The business received an influx of well-wishes in the comments of its social media post announcing the news, with customers and members of the community heaping praise on the beloved local business.

Joy Hughes wrote: "This is so sad, but also completely understandable. You will always be loved and remembered as a fantastic shop with fabulous produce and customer service, making all of your customers your friends. Thank you for everything."

Matt Ringsell added: "All the best to you all and have a happy retirement. Thank you for expanding my taste buds and waistline."

Carters is one of several Ludlow businesses to close recently, with the historic Rickards ironmongers in the Bull Ring also closing its doors for the final time. 

Restaurants and cafes have also faced difficulties and been forced to close, such as Chang Thai and Marmalade.

Councillor Andy Boddington, addressing the problem of empty shops earlier this year, said: "Ludlow is still a lively town and well worth visiting to shop and explore its heritage, cafes restaurants, pubs market and really good shops. But it cannot be hidden that there are more empty shops than there used to be."