A primary school teacher is closing the pages on a chapter of her life as she awaits a new arrival.

Reception teacher, Louise Carter, set up the popular Little Gems Children's Boutique & Toys in Congleton Road.

Sadly Louise, who is expecting her third child in April, has decided to shut up shop and concentrate on her family.

Louise who has two other children, Harry (5) and Grace (3) said: "I have loved every minute of having the shop but now is the time to move on and do something different.

"We opened just before Covid started and it's been a difficult time for everyone.

"The current climate requires businesses to push forward more than ever before to survive which I cannot do at this time.

"With our new imminent arrival, it's a great time to focus on my family which when I think of the last couple of years has taught us if anything, to do just that."

Little Gems, known for its selection of wooden toys and wide selection of children's wear, is currently running a closing down sale with 50 per cent off clothing and 40 per cent off toys.

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Louise said: "It's all very sad but it's the right thing to do. We will be staying open until the end of March or until all the stock has gone."

A long list of Louise's faithful customers have left messages on the shop's Facebook post saying it's closing.

One said: "So sorry to hear this. Your shop has been amazing and it's going to be a real loss to the town."

Another gutted customer said: "That's really sad. It's a cracking little shop!"

Louise said: "I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of you for your support you have given me since I opened my business.

"I have always said how blessed I have been to have a business in a wonderful town like Sandbach.

"The support my customers have all given to all the business, especially through the last couple of years, has been incredible."