A LYME Regis business has closed its doors after “a steady decline in trade” over the last few years.

Staples Stores on Staples Terrace has closed permanently, the owners have announced.

A statement released by the owners, said: “It is with an enormous sense of sadness that the owners have to announce the closure of Staples Stores, Staples Terrace, Lyme Regis with immediate effect.

“Having taken over the running of Staples Stores five years ago, the owners invested heavily in a make-over of the store and initially were rewarded with a major increase in support and turnover. Unfortunately, typical of many small independent convenience retailers, the business has seen a steady decline in trade, particularly over the last three years.

“The increase in overheads, the change in the owners’ association and the forecast continued decline in trade in the years ahead only serve to further frustrate the possibility of turning the fortunes of the business around.

“Every attempt is being made to mitigate the impact on members of staff, with some positions being made available at their Chideock Store. Newspaper deliveries will be transferred to Chideock Stores and supplies will continue uninterrupted. News customers will be contacted directly on this point.”