A WORKINGTON business has fallen victim to the cost of living crisis as it continues to strain businesses and peoples lives.

Strange and Beautiful was located on 33 Murray Road, this store was the second opened by owners Aimee Hollingsworth and John Hollingsworth, as they had outgrown their smaller space.

However, increasing bills have forced the pair to downsize the store, and with the cost of living crisis ever increasing, people have less disposable income so shopping only for essentials is more common.

The husband and wife duo annouced the sad news via social media. The final nail in the coffin for the future of the store was the lack of help towards rate bills for small businesses in the area, leaving Aimee and John dissapointed.

Aimee, co owner of the store, said: "We are absolutely gutted as it wasn't just us who put our time into making this shop what it is, we had lots of friends in every weekend on the build up to opening helping us decorate and clean.

"Its been a tough decision to make as so many people are still finding out about us and its much easier to visit us on the high street than outside of town.

"We know things are going to get worse before they get better in the current financial climate, so staying there will only be more difficult in the months ahead. Being in a smaller premesis will mean we can afford the bills and still be able to feed our family." Aimee continued.

However, the pair share a "massive, heart-felt" thank you to all of their customers who have helped them have a taste of what it's like to be a high street shop. 

Aimee said: "We are not gone, just more compact!"

Strange and Beautiful are moving back to their previous shop at 65 John Street, opposite Whelans Chemist. 

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