A pet shop in Oswaldtwistle, Lancashire, has ceased trading, with lack of business in the local area being blamed for the closure.

According to the Lancashire Telegraph, five people lost their jobs after the Pet Warehouse shut its doors to the public on Christmas Eve.

The newspaper reported that owners Mark and Julie Bleasdale, whose family has been in the pet trade for over 100 years, have been forced to close the Oswaldtwistle store because of a lack of business in the area.

Manager Michelle Turner, 38, who worked at the store for more than 13 years, told the Lancashire Telegraph: “I feel so sad. My time here has been amazing. We have so many wonderful customers who have brought all their pets in and I will miss them all.

“Sadly I think we are closing down because of a lack of business. I think people are shopping elsewhere and going online because they find it easier to do.”

Local councillor Glen Harrison said: “It’s another body blow for Oswaldtwistle. It’s a crying shame because we want our town to flourish but unfortunately if people do not do their shopping locally it damages the local economy. If you do not support local traders this is the horrible reality.”

And customer June Smith wrote on Facebook: Such a shame this is closing down, the staff were great always friendly and helpful and if what you wanted was not in the shop they would always order it in for you. Hope you all find jobs and enjoy them as much as you have at pet warehouse...good luck to all staff.”

Click here to read the full Lancashire Telegraph story.