The owners of a popular pet shop in Stourport-on-Severn, Worcestershire, are facing an uncertain future after being told they must leave their current premises by the end of the month, according to local newspaper reports.
The Kidderminster Shuffle has said on its website that Pet & Garden Supplies in Tan Lane has been given a few weeks’ notice to leave after property developer Bromford Housing purchased the land.
The developer completed work on its £10.5million School Gardens retirement village complex – situated opposite the shop - last month and said it needs the land for additional on-site parking.
But Jackie Carter, who runs Pet & Garden Supplies with husband Richard, told the Kidderminster Shuffle: “Our rolling 12 month lease ran out in February and we were told it wouldn’t be renewed as Bromford were looking to buy the land.
“We thought we would be given suitable notice but, at the end of March, we were told we had to get out in just a few weeks and it was a huge shock.
“The whole situation is emotionally draining as we have such little time to digest the news, clear this shop and find new premises suitable for us to carry on.
"As well as the animals in the shop, we also have two stray cats that have set up home here and will now have to be rehomed.
“And the response from all our customers has been incredible and overwhelming as we didn't realise how highly people thought of us. I can’t thank them enough.
“Some are angry and wanted to protest while others have been in tears. Their reaction is encouraging us to try to carry on with the business."
Pet & Garden Supplies has operated from the Tan Lane site for 12 years.
The full report can be read by clicking here