Is there a fairy godmother with a deep purse who will fly in to save a much-loved Cleethorpes business?

The St Peter's Avenue store in happier times

CAN anyone  rescue the Williams's store on St Peters Avenue in Cleethorpes? 

That is the hope of customers who cherish this charming shop which also accommodated a post office at the rear of the premises.

On Sunday, Williams's posted the following message on social media: "We are sad to announce that, as of today, our store will cease trading and will be closed for business. 

"We have personally invested multiple times into the business and each time we have another setback - for example, pandemic, cost-of-living crisis, Thorntons closure, high rent, high electricity bills and an ever-increasing wage bill."

The message continues: "All these changes have been experienced by the whole retail sector, and everyone knows how it has affected the retail face of small towns across the country including Cleethorpes. 

"Therefore it is with regret that we are having to cease trading and close the store as of today 7th April 2024. 

"Many thanks to our customers old and new, and we apologise for any inconvenience."

It is understood that a business rescue firm, Burnley-based Simply Corporate,  has been appointed to run a slide rule over Williams's and its assets.

But can it find someone willing and ready to take over the business? 

Where is the love? Barely two months since Valentine's Day, and Williams's is now closed