RESIDENTS have expressed their sadness at the announcement that a unique shop, described as the "last of its kind," is set to close.

Paul Broadgate, the owner of Fabric Direct on Bromsgrove Street in Kidderminster, has said he's made the difficult decision to call time on the business after 20 years.

The shop sold custom-made blinds, curtain and upholstery fabrics, poles and tie backs, haberdashery and more.

Mr Broadgate, aged 57, who also runs a sister shop called Hole in the Wall Curtains in Walsall, has said the store has been losing money and rising costs have made the business unsustainable.

Mr Broadgate said: “Commercially, it’s no longer viable. It’s emotionally hard. It’s difficult. There’s nothing like it in the area because we just sell everything.

“We have lost money the last two years and it’s just down to rising costs. Everything is going up in price.

“It’s just not sustainable for small businesses. We've got customers coming in but we're not doing enough trade".

The store will open for one last time on Saturday, February 24. It will close at 4pm on the day.

A closing down sale is set to start from Thursday (February 22).

Kidderminster residents have reacted to the announcement on social media.

Chris Turvey said: "Their experience and expertise will be greatly missed, something you can't really find online".

Gary Wilson said: "It's a shame to see long standing outlets disappear one by one".

Shauna Livingstone said: "Another business bites the dust, lovely staff always helpful and pleasant, sad".

Amanda Mortimer said: "So sad. Fabulous business with lovely knowledgeable staff. Beautifully made curtains in my home. You will be missed".

Mr Broadgate has thanked customers for their support over the years.