High street suffers fresh blow in popular market town as beloved fashion retailer closes

A small UK fashion chain has announced the closure of one of its stores in the latest blow to the high street. Lemon Fashion sells women's clothes and accessories and has six stores across North Yorkshire. These include shops in Richmond, Thirsk, Helmsley, Northallerton, Stokesley and York.

But on Wednesday last week, they announced on Facebook that the Stokesley store would be closing for good at the start of next month. Lemon Fashion wrote: "We're sad to announce that after 8 years Lemon will be leaving Stokesley, we'll close our doors on the 1st November.

"Firstly, a huge thank you to our current staff Karen and Shirley, Karen will stay with us in Northallerton but Shirley is moving on, we will miss her so much but wish her nothing but happiness.

"Then to our customers, we can't say a big enough thank you for all the support and loyalty you have shown us over the years, you really have been the best.

"We hope we'll continue to see you in other stores. Adieu, farewell but not goodbye."

Gutted locals voiced their sadness at the news, with one commenting: "Oh I will really miss this shop! I've bought all sorts of clothes & accessories there."

Another said: "Such a shame, but will visit you in Northallerton."

A third added: "Aw sorry to see you leave. Your shop is lovely just what Stokesley needed," wishing them good luck.

A fourth person commented: "A lovely shop and bought many things over the years. You'll be missed. Thanks for brightening up the high street."

Another local called it a "lovely shop and even lovelier staff".

It comes as various high street stalwarts grapple with increased costs due to rising energy bills, rent, National Insurance contributions, and wages. Lemon Fashion didn't reveal the reason for the closure, or indicate that any other stores could close.