A MUCH-LOVED arts and crafts retailer in Reading announced sudden plans of imminent closure.

Following 25 years of service to residents in Cheapside, the family run business Fabric Land is set to shut its doors in the upcoming months.

A notice has been displayed on the store window announcing the closure on Saturday, March 26.

Fabric Land is famous for fabrics, knitting supplies, haberdashery and creative crafts.

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Reading Chronicle:

The company was founded in 1971 when owner Natalie Berg started selling fabric at a market stall in Maidenhead and Reading market.

One year later Natalie moved from Wanstead London to Bournemouth, opening a tiny shop selling fabric and haberdashery in Bournemouth High Street in 1985.

Since then, the family opened five stores in total including Cheapside in Reading.

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Sadly, the beloved store is closing its doors to customers but their online shop remains available.

Everything in store is reduced by 20 per cent at the checkout, the notice says.

Adding: "We would like to thank all customers for shopping with us and supporting us for 25 years."

Tributes from devastated shoppers poured on social media.

Marianne May said on Facebook group New and Old Reading: "This is so sad it’s the only shop I like in town and the staff were always so helpful."

Stephanie Curlew said: "Yes terrible news. Great variety of stuff and knowledgeable helpful staff . Not like John Lewis which will be only option now."