THE clock is ticking down towards the closure of a popular garden centre where optimistic thoughts following its reopening after coronavirus proved unsustainable.

In May Thurrock Nub News reported from the Little Lodge Garden Centre in Fobbing as its doors were opened to customers. Business owner Michael Kirby was in upbeat mood and spoke bullishly about the future.

However, huge problems with getting supplies led ed to the announcement that the site is to close at the end of the month.

The owners have said little publicly but today confirmed that the prospect of having to incur significant debts if they were to try and sustain the business has led to them coming to their decision. A major problem was the inability to obtain supplies to sustain demand.

A brief statement earlier had said: "It is with a heavy heart and great sadness that we will be closing permanently from the end of June.

"We would like to thank everyone of our wonderful customers for all of your support over the last four years! Until we close there will be a 50% sale on all shrubs, trees and climbers. Everything must go.

"We will be open 10am - 3pm Monday to Friday".

Local residents have expressed deep regret at the pending closure of a popular local business, with many taking to social media to express their sadness and thanks for the years of service.

The company's sister business, Site Acres Landscaping is not affected and will continue.