A much-loved newsagents in Darlington town centre closed its doors for the final time over the weekend.

Skinnergate News on Skinnergate had its final day of business on Saturday (June 1) as its owners shut up shop to retire.

The newsagents have been a well-known feature in the town for the last 20 years run by friendly faces Malcolm and Sharon Dobson.

Reacting to the closure, the nearby Three Squares Café wished the couple all the best for the future.

A post on social media reads: "We would like to congratulate Malcolm and Sharon Dobson on their retirement from Skinnergate News.

"Their hard work and dedication to serve the local community of Darlington will be missed and we wish them all the best in their retirement!"

Darlington's Conservative MP candidate Peter Gibson also wished the couple well.

He wrote: "Sterling service to our Community. Wishing you both a long and happy retirement."

This news comes after the couple admitted in January that they could no longer continue because of the Labour-run council.

Mr Dobson told the Echo: "We preferred the Tory council. The Labour one has killed the town centre.

"Our business has dropped by 40 per cent, we will be going in about six months. We have been here 20 years and this is the worst time we have experienced.

"Our lease runs out in six months and we are not renewing it."

Councillor Chris McEwan, deputy leader of Darlington Borough Council and cabinet member for economy, said in January believes that while footfall may be down people are staying longer in the town centre.

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He said: "It’s disappointing to hear that the owners of Skinnergate News do not wish to renew their lease.

"The national landscape has shown some recent downturn in footfall, however, car parking data suggests that people visiting Darlington are spending longer in our town centre.

"This is alongside strong occupancy rates. The council continues to focus significant public investment to regenerate the town centre, including works to transform the Yards and Skinnergate."