A PET shop in Lochmaben which houses the town’s post office has announced its intention to close for good later this year.
For more than a decade, Pettigrew’s of Lochmaben has provided locals with pet food, garden tools and fishing supplies.
But this week owner Dug Pettigrew said he had noticed a “considerable drop in footfall” due to the pandemic pushing more people to shop online.
He added: “I have been lucky in as much as I was allowed to stay open, albeit on a part time basis which was my choice.
“Unfortunately the trend to shop online will probably, I think, not reverse but grow stronger. “With the above in mind, although not the only reason, I have made a very difficult decision to close the shop.”
Dug clarified the closure “would not happen overnight” but said he would cease trading at some point in the coming months after remain- ing stock is cleared.
He continued: “I would like to thank all my loyal customers who have supported the shop over the last 15 years.”
The decision means that the in-store Post Office kiosk will also close.
However, a Post Office spokesman said discussions are already underway to relocate the branch elsewhere in the town.
