A FAMILY-run business has shut up shop after spending more than two decades on the high street.

This 'n' That on West Street, Bridport, has called it a day after 24 years.

The card shop is owned and managed by Kevin and Wendy Parker, who say they have just experienced the 'worst Christmas trade ever.' On top of this, they are coming to the end of their lease with the building's landlord who is looking to sell.

A 'closing down' sign went up in the shop's window on Friday night.

Mrs Parker, 64, said: "Lots of people have said how shocked they are and they can't believe it but it's been taken out of our hands. We've been thinking about retiring but now we've been pushed as we would have had to sign a new lease for another 10 years. We're sorry to see it go but we are ready to step back and do what we want to do. We put our lives into this but we're ready to do other things. "

This 'n' That has been a fixture of Bridport's high street for years, and Mrs Parker says there has been a noticeable difference in consumer habits.

"I think online shopping has definitely affected us," she said. "There's more competition in the town and now the Works is also moving in. The footfall on the high street is disappearing. I think there could be more help for small businesses. The Government says we're the backbone of the country but they don't do anything to help us."

Mr and Mrs Parker live in Crewkerne and have two daughters, one of whom, Paula, works alongside them at the shop, and three grandchildren. They are looking forward to seeing more of them once they retire.

"We are sad it's going but there's lots to keep us happy," said Mrs Parker. "We'd like to say 'thank you' to all of our customers over the years. We're very grateful to them."