A North Yorkshire garden centre has announced it has closed with immediate effect.

The Ravensworth Nurseries in Richmond said it was with the “heaviest of hearts” that it had decided to close.

In a statement it said lockdown, rising bills and the cost-of-living crisis- meant it had “reached the end of the line”.

Read more: Tragedy as person dies after 'incident' on tracks at railway station

The nursery said: “It is with the greatest of sadness, and the heaviest of hearts, that we have to announce Ravensworth Nurseries is closing with immediate effect.

“What started with the sale of a few tomato plants on the side of the road - turned into a family business that we have put our hearts and souls into for the last 57 years.

“However the culmination of lockdown, rising bills, and the ongoing cost of living crisis means sadly we have reached the end of the line and we will be closing our doors for the last time today.

“We would like to take this opportunity to thank our many, many loyal customers - you have trusted us year on year to fill your gardens and homes with our plants, veg and flowers, and we are so grateful for your enduring support.

The Northern Echo: Fiona Dean, owner of Ravensworth Nurseries.Fiona Dean, owner of Ravensworth Nurseries. (Image: SARAH CALDECOTT)

“We would also like to thank our amazing team. We simply could not have been in business as long as we have without all of your hard work and dedication.

“We have loved every minute of this incredible journey, and we will miss you all.”

The nursery's website confirmed it had closed its doors for the final time on Friday (July 28).

At the beginning of the first lockdown Ravenworth's owner Fiona Dean told the Echo she faced a "potential total stock write off" after garden centres were first forced to close.

But in September that year the tide appeared to have changed as the nursery announced plans for a £1.1m expansion.

Customers were quick to express their sadness at the announcement on social media.

One Facebook user said: “Gutted for you, we need independents like yourselves. This is such saddening news.

Read next:

Get more from The Northern Echo with a Premium Plus digital subscription from as little as only £1.50 a week. Click here

“We’ve been buying your plants, shrubs and trees for more than 30 years.”

Another added: “So sad to hear that another independent business is having to close. We've visited often and bought many plants and shrubs from you over the years.

“Wishing you and your loyal staff all best wishes for the future - your nursery will be missed by many.”