A wedding shop of 45 years has shut with great sadness from its owner and customers.

Twins Wedding Shop, which sells cakes, flowers and wedding equipment in Victoria Road in Romford, had its last trading day yesterday (August 14).

Debbie Herron, who has run Twins for 30 years after taking it over from her mother Jean Dillon, said changing consumer habits, the Covid pandemic and other factors have resulted in the closure.

The premises has been subject to proposed redevelopment, including plans submitted last April to demolish Twins and a neighbouring shop to build six flats and three terraced houses.

"We're very sad," Debbie said. "We've had a lot of good wishes and very upset people, it is sad for us and them because there's very few cake shops like us left anymore.

"It has been a struggle and if you're not making enough to make it worthwhile it seems like a fruitless fight," she added.

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Debbie said that they officially move out of the premises in November, giving the business time to secure stock and make final sales.

The family-run business will not be opening another branch in Romford, nor does it have plans to move online, since Debbie said it would be too costly.

Despite the closure, Debbie took the time to thank people in Romford who had supported Twins.

"We are very grateful to all the customers we have had over the years.

"It's been wonderful the response to it all."