After nearly a decade serving customers in the heart of Newport, staff at an Isle of Wight shoe shop are preparing to bid an emotional farewell.

Pavers, at Towngate Retail Park, is shutting its doors next week — eight years after opening.

News of the closure has come as a shock to both customers and the store's eight staff.

Employees only found out it was shutting last Wednesday (April 17) and say they will now have to look for new jobs.

The County Press has been told that Pavers' lease on the unit was due to expire and the rent was being increased.

Isle of Wight County Press: Pavers, Newport, Towngate Retail Park.Pavers, Newport, Towngate Retail Park. (Image: IWCP)

Store manager, Claire Waters, said: "Thank you to all out loyal customers over the last eight years.

"We're going to miss you terribly."

She said where the closure was such short notice, Pavers have not had the time to find a new building on the Island, but that's not to say the retailer won't return in the future.

"Watch this space", Claire said.

"You'll be the first to know if we come back."

Towngate Retail Park is also home to Snap Fitness and Halfords.

A spokesperson for both companies confirmed they will not be affected.

Pavers will shut for the final time on Tuesday, April 30.