A POPULAR seaside tearoom and gift shop is to close next month as its owners prepare to retire.

Allonby Tearoom and Gift Shop is set to shut its doors on September 20, an announcement on social media has revealed.

In a post on Facebook, the owners said: “It is with great sadness that we must announce that Allonby Tearoom and Gift Shop will close permanently on September 20, as Michael and I will be retiring to begin another exciting chapter of our lives.

“We are beyond grateful to all our customers, many of whom have been with us since day one.

“It has been special to see so many examples of people walking in as strangers/customers and those relationships evolving into genuine friendships that will continue far beyond the closure date of the café.

“We'd also like to take this opportunity to thank those that have been team members at the café, all of whom are viewed as extended family. Your hard work and positive attitude did not go unnoticed and it helped create a truly lovely work environment.”

Customers with booking queries are advised to phone the café on 01900 881309.