A CLOTH shop in Culcheth is closing its doors after 34 years in business, as a major shakeup to the way it operates.

The Cloth Shop is set to move its operations entirely online in 2023, after it announced it will be closing its doors at Culcheth Shopping Centre.

Since 2003 The Cloth Shop had been located at Culcheth Shopping Centre, but the shop began in 1989 and was run from the Village Gallery in Culcheth.

It was announced on social media on Sunday, January 8, that the shop would be closing its doors and making the move online.

In the announcement, the store's owner, Lynn, said: "After 34 years I have decided to close The Cloth Shop in the CPS Centre.

"Our website will continue and all stock will be available; as new stock arrives it will be added to the website with new exciting additions.

"I hope you will come on this new journey with me."

Lynn added: "Thank you to all our wonderful customers and friends for the laughs and tears."

Serving a loyal customer base for more than three decades, the move online follows a recent trend by many businesses to move online.

Other businesses across the country are being pummelled by the cost-of-living crises, and making the move online cuts costs whilst continuing to serve a loyal base of customers.

Since it opened, The Cloth Shop has provided limited edition fabrics, patterns, and a wide range of needlework.

A number of regular customers commented beneath the announcement on social media, with one saying that they would miss the expertise of Lynn, and how she was always happy to provide assistance.

According to the shop's social media page, it was often described as 'an Aladdin's cave.'

The Cloth Shop has rave reviews online, with one Google review from Brenda Coulson saying: "I haven't made a garment for about 35 years.

"Lynn gave me so much help choosing an easy pattern suitable for my size and body shape. It was like having a private sewing lesson. I'm keen to get started again now."

Another, Joanna, added: "A real gem for anyone who likes to knit, sew or craft, or just needs to buy some unique buttons or ribbon (at a fraction of the cost of stuff in the big chains).

"Friendly and helpful staff too."

The Cloth Shop can still be accessed from its website - https://www.theclothshop.co.uk/ - and more information can be found on the shop's social media pages.