A popular Darlington family business that has served the town's community for over 100 years has announced that it will close later this year. 

Todds Butchers may have been in the Darlington community for 111 years and based on Haughton Green in the town, but it will close up its shutters for good in March 2023 - with some branding it 'the end of an era'.

Opening the business in 1912, the butchers has gone through three generations of the Todd family, before current owner Mike has now decided to retire. 

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In an emotional statement shared online, Mike and Pauline Todd said that they weren't taking the decision lightly, but retirement would bring them time to do things that running a business hasn't allowed them to do. 

Alongside documenting the history of the butchers shop, Mike and Pauline also thanked the loyal customer base in Darlington.

They will now close on March 31, 2023.

The statement from the couple read: "With a heavy heart, Pauline and I have decided the time is right to close our third-generation family Butchers business on March 31, 2023.

"Thomas Todd, my grandfather, bought the business in 1912 to be followed by Bill, my father, and then myself.

"After 40 years, it's time to move on, to do the things that running a business has not allowed us the time, nor the freedom to do.

"We would like to thank our current reliable members of staff whom have amazingly and collectively amassed 60 years of loyal and trustworthy service between them.

"It only leaves me then to thank our many hundreds of loyal customers and their families, old and new, for supporting us and appreciating our efforts to supply them with the best quality local produce consistently, reliably and honestly, week in week out, for the last 111 years.

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"We will continue to serve you all with pleasure until we close at the end of March.

"Many thanks, Mike and Pauline Todd."

After the news of the closure, many were shocked to see their beloved butchers close, with one person saying: "Wow, such a shock, never thought we would lose the best butchers ever," while another added: "Wow - that's a shock, Mike. Best wishes to you and Pauline on your retirement and thanks to you and all staff for the great service provided to the local community over the years."