READERS are saddened after bosses of a popular Walney newsagent announced it will be closing its doors at the end of this month.

Early News on Liverpool Street has served the island for 70 years but will be shutting up shop on June 25. 

Caroline and Stuart Benson, who have been owners of the shop for just under seven and a half years, said the decision to close the shop due to Stuart being diagnosed with prostate cancer did not come lightly - but health comes first.

The Mail readers took to social media to share their views:

Norma A Powell said: "Thanks for the wonderful service you provided for us on West Shore Park. You were a lifeline through the pandemic and after.

"I am sure all the residents wish you well in your retirement. Thinking of you both."

Peter Cairns said: "Always been a pleasure walking into the shop.Always felt a welcome and appreciated customer.

"Thoroughly well earned retirement you two, enjoy every minute of it. Wishing you are all the very best."

READ MORE: End of an era for newsagent which has served the community for 70 years

Monica Kirkby said: "Miss getting my papers birthday cards etc off you I hope all goes well with you both."

Marie Moss said: "Very sad to see this shop go always lovely staff in there, will be missed by so many on the island. But good luck to your future Caroline and Stuart."

Angela Shields said: "Wishing you both all the best for the future and try and take it easy."

Christine Redfern said: "Good luck all of you in whatever you do next will miss you all."

Painy12 said: "It is a shame, I know one elderly gentleman who doesn't get out and the papers are his way of keeping connected with what is going on, what about renting the business out rather than selling or getting a manager into run the whole business. Like they do with public houses, the manager/tenant is responsible for everything so the owners can still make sure that Stuart's health comes first as they would not be involved."

Ex-employees of the shop took to social media to say their farewells: 

Theresa Jeffries said: "Loved working alongside them, it was a home from home not work, hang up the running shoes and have your well-earned retirement, I'm sure you will all be missed."

Susan Quayle said: "Been an absolute pleasure working with and for these marvelous people."