Pandemic leads to business closing

Owner Karen Price confirmed the closure of the Dress Agency - a prominent store on the town’s High Street - on social media.

She said: “It is with great sadness that I have to let you know that The Dress Agency will not be re-opening after the current lockdown.

“Thank you all for your custom and friendship over the past years and let’s hope that things can soon get back to ‘normal.’”

The Dress Agency had been trading for six years.

It was a popular outlet for people wanting pre-worn outfits for special occasions, including weddings, school proms and dinner dances.

However, the pandemic - and subsequent lockdowns - led to most social calendar events being cancelled in the last 12 months./

Ms Price confirmed funding via Government-backed grants had not been enough to ensure survival and added: “There is only so long you can run a business with no money coming in.”

Ms Price said ‘other costs’ had been a factor, including rental charges.

She added she had still to decide whether to sell remaining stock via an online auction.

All non-essential shops have had to close with the majority of owners having to rely on takings in the build up to Christmas.

Even those that can open report a significant fall in trade because of a lack of footfall.

Some have continued a click and collect service, with mixed success.

The hospitality business has been particularly hard hit with only takeaways being allowed to open.