Residents of a Northumberland town have been reminded to shop local after a soft play and ice cream parlour was forced to close.
Get Licks on Station Road in Prudhoe announced this week that it would not be reopening following the Christmas break, with a lengthy Facebook post stating that the operation was no longer sustainable.
The business was formerly known as The Fun Station.
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The statement read: "We have unfortunately had to make some big decisions regarding the sustainability of our business over the last few weeks. We feel with sadness and regret that at this time we are no longer in a position to continue trading and reopen after Christmas.
"There are multiple contributing factors to this and it breaks our hearts to have to do it but unfortunately it is the right decision and our wonderful staff have been brilliant throughout all of this and we would like to thank them all for their hard work and continued support.
"Anyone with parties booked in January and beyond unfortunately will have to cancel those. We will be in touch after the 3rd of January regarding the deposit payment and refunds as we are in discussions with liquidators who are assisting us and they don’t reopen until then unfortunately.
"We apologise for the inconvenience but unfortunately have no other option and wanted to try and give you as much notice as possible without ruining your Christmas. Anyone with a booking who would like to discuss things further with us you can contact us via email on softplay@getlicks.co.uk.
"We are taking a few days to process it all but will get back to you as soon as possible. Once again we couldn’t have lasted as long as we have without the support of all of our wonderful customers and we apologise again for any inconvenience we wish you all the best in the New Year."
Get Licks faced local competition from Daniel Farm in Wylam, while there is also a soft play area at Northumberland County Council's Active Northumberland site Prudhoe Waterworld. A new ice cream parlour and dessert takeaway, Dessert Royale, recently opened in the town centre.
However, Coun Gordon Stewart, who represents Prudhoe South said he was surprised to see Get Licks closed.
He said: "This closure has come as a surprise and with sadness for many. There are many challenges for businesses at this time, and a range of support is available from the county council and other organisations.
"I wish the staff well in looking for new employment and I am in contact with the DWP job centre plus team to see what assistance can be given. I would ask residents to shop locally whenever they can which will help our small businesses."
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